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Thandwe, nestled on the western coast of Myanmar’s Rakhine State, occupies a geographically significant position within the Irrawaddy Basin. Located at approximately 18.4667° N, 94.3667° E, the city’s terrain is characterized by a gently sloping coastal plain, transitioning inland to low-lying hills and agricultural lands. Its proximity to the Bay of Bengal profoundly influences its climate and, consequently, its air quality. The surrounding landscape is a mosaic of coastal mangroves, rice paddies, and small-scale farms, creating a distinct urban–rural gradient. While Thandwe itself is a developing urban center, the immediate periphery remains largely agrarian, with fishing being a vital economic activity. The city’s elevation is relatively low, averaging around 10 meters above sea level, which can exacerbate the trapping of pollutants, particularly during periods of stagnant air. There are no major industrial belts directly adjacent to Thandwe, though some small-scale processing of agricultural products occurs within the city limits. The prevailing winds, generally southwesterly during the monsoon season, play a crucial role in dispersing pollutants, while calmer conditions during the dry season can lead to localized accumulation. The coastal location also means that sea breezes can influence local air circulation patterns, sometimes bringing in saline aerosols which can interact with other pollutants. The city’s growth is largely organic, with a mix of traditional wooden structures and newer concrete buildings, impacting urban heat island effects and potentially influencing local air movement.

Thandwe’s air quality experiences a distinct seasonal cycle dictated by its tropical monsoon climate. The monsoon season, typically spanning from May to October, brings heavy rainfall and strong southwesterly winds. These winds generally provide excellent ventilation, dispersing pollutants and leading to relatively cleaner air. However, periods of intense rainfall can also mobilize dust and soil particles, temporarily degrading air quality. The dry season, from November to April, presents a different challenge. Reduced rainfall and calmer winds often result in temperature inversions, where a layer of warm air traps cooler air near the ground, preventing vertical mixing and allowing pollutants to accumulate. Fog, common during the cooler months of December and January, further exacerbates this issue by reducing visibility and trapping particulate matter. Agricultural burning, a common practice in the surrounding rural areas during the dry season to clear land for planting, contributes significantly to localized pollution episodes. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the dry season, particularly during periods of fog or visible haze. Outdoor activities are generally more favorable during the monsoon months, although heavy rainfall can still pose a challenge. The transition periods between the monsoon and dry seasons can be unpredictable, with fluctuating wind patterns and occasional dust storms impacting air quality. Maintaining awareness of local weather conditions and minimizing exposure to potential sources of pollution are crucial for protecting respiratory health throughout the year.