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Bourem Inali, nestled within the ancient region of Tombouctou in Mali, occupies a precarious yet historically significant position on the edge of the Inner Niger Delta. Its coordinates (16.6883, -2.8528) place it within the Sahelian zone, a transitional ecoregion between the Sahara Desert and Sudanian Savanna. The city’s geography is dominated by a flat, alluvial plain, a direct consequence of the Niger River’s seasonal flooding. Elevation is minimal, rarely exceeding 150 meters above sea level, contributing to a tendency for pollutants to linger close to the ground. The surrounding landscape is characterized by vast expanses of semi-arid grassland, punctuated by acacia woodlands and seasonal wetlands. Agriculture, primarily subsistence farming focused on millet, sorghum, and rice, is the dominant land use in the immediate vicinity, creating a gradual urban–rural gradient. While the Niger River itself provides a vital water source, its fluctuating levels significantly impact the local microclimate. There are no major industrial belts nearby; however, the reliance on traditional cooking methods using wood and charcoal, coupled with the burning of agricultural residues after harvest, contributes to localized air pollution. The flat terrain and limited vertical mixing, particularly during cooler months, exacerbate the accumulation of particulate matter. The city’s location, far from major urban centers, means it is less affected by long-range transported pollutants, but vulnerable to regional dust storms originating from the Sahara.

Bourem Inali’s air quality is inextricably linked to its distinct wet and dry seasons. The dry season, typically spanning November to May, presents the most significant air quality challenges. Characterized by intense solar radiation, consistently high temperatures, and minimal rainfall, this period fosters a stable atmospheric boundary layer. This stability inhibits vertical mixing, trapping pollutants near the surface. Wind speeds are generally low, further reducing dispersion. Dust storms, common during February and March, dramatically degrade air quality, carrying fine particulate matter over considerable distances. The burning of agricultural residues following the harvest season (October/November) also contributes substantially to particulate pollution. The wet season (June to October), marked by the annual flooding of the Inner Niger Delta, brings a temporary reprieve. Increased rainfall washes particulate matter from the atmosphere, and higher humidity can help to suppress dust. However, the flooding itself can lead to increased biomass burning as communities clear land for cultivation, and stagnant water can contribute to localized odors and potentially microbial pollutants. During the transition months (May and October), fluctuating wind patterns and temperature gradients can lead to unpredictable air quality episodes. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the dry season, particularly during dust storm events. Limiting outdoor exertion and wearing appropriate masks can mitigate exposure. The period from December to February, while generally drier, can experience cooler nights leading to temperature inversions, which further trap pollutants.