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Allanmyo, nestled in the Magway Region of Myanmar (coordinates 19.3783° N, 95.2279° E), occupies a geographically significant position within the central dry zone of the country. The city’s terrain is predominantly flat, characteristic of the Irrawaddy Basin, with gentle undulations defining the surrounding landscape. Elevation is relatively low, averaging around 110 meters above sea level, contributing to a tendency for pollutants to accumulate, particularly during periods of atmospheric stability. Allanmyo is situated approximately 25 kilometers southeast of the Irrawaddy River, though its direct influence on the city’s microclimate is limited due to the distance and prevailing wind patterns. The region is largely agricultural, with extensive fields of sesame, beans, and pulses dominating the rural areas surrounding Allanmyo. This agricultural activity, while vital to the regional economy, can contribute to particulate matter pollution through seasonal burning practices and fertilizer application. Further afield, the Magway industrial belt, centered around the production of agricultural machinery and processed foods, introduces localized sources of industrial emissions. The urban–rural gradient around Allanmyo is gradual, with small villages and agricultural plots interspersed within the broader landscape. This proximity to agricultural lands means that dust storms and agricultural burning are significant factors influencing air quality, especially during the dry season. The flat topography and limited natural barriers exacerbate the impact of these sources, allowing pollutants to spread readily across the city.

Allanmyo’s air quality follows a distinct seasonal pattern dictated by Myanmar’s monsoon climate. The dry season, spanning roughly November to April, presents the most challenging conditions. Reduced rainfall, coupled with lower humidity, leads to increased dust generation from agricultural fields and unpaved roads. Temperature inversions, common during the cooler months (December-February), trap pollutants near the ground, intensifying the impact. Agricultural burning, a traditional practice for land clearing and residue disposal, peaks during this period, releasing significant quantities of particulate matter. The monsoon season, from May to October, brings relief with frequent rainfall that naturally cleanses the atmosphere. However, the onset of the monsoon can be marked by periods of heavy fog, particularly in May and early June, which can temporarily reduce visibility and trap pollutants. Wind patterns shift during the monsoon, generally blowing from the southwest, dispersing pollutants more effectively. The transitional months of April and October experience variable conditions, with a mix of dry and wet weather, leading to fluctuating air quality. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the dry season, limiting outdoor activities during peak pollution periods, typically mid-morning and late afternoon. During the monsoon, while overall air quality improves, periods of fog necessitate caution for those with pre-existing respiratory issues. Maintaining indoor air quality through ventilation and air purification can be beneficial throughout the year, especially during periods of elevated dust or fog.