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Sébikhotane, a town within the Dakar region of Senegal, occupies a relatively flat coastal plain at approximately 25 meters above sea level, placing it firmly within the Atlantic coastal ecosystem. Its coordinates (14.7428, -17.1419) position it a short distance inland from the Atlantic Ocean, influencing local climate and air circulation patterns. The surrounding landscape is characterised by a mix of sandy soils, scrub vegetation, and increasingly, peri-urban agricultural land. While not heavily industrialised *within* Sébikhotane itself, its proximity to the larger Dakar metropolitan area means it experiences spillover effects from industrial activity concentrated further north along the coast. The urban-rural gradient is pronounced; moving inland from the coast, agricultural practices – including small-scale farming and livestock rearing – become more dominant. This agricultural activity contributes to particulate matter through dust from tilling and animal waste. The prevailing winds, typically from the Atlantic, can carry both marine aerosols and pollutants from Dakar, impacting Sébikhotane’s air quality. The town’s relatively low elevation and coastal location mean it’s susceptible to humidity and salt spray, which can interact with pollutants, forming secondary aerosols. Understanding this interplay is crucial for assessing local air quality challenges.

Sébikhotane experiences a distinct wet and dry season, heavily influencing air quality. The dry season, roughly November to May, sees a build-up of particulate matter. Harmattan winds, originating from the Sahara, transport significant amounts of dust southward, dramatically reducing visibility and increasing PM10 and PM2.5 levels. January to March are typically the months with the poorest air quality due to this influx. The dry heat also encourages the suspension of local dust from unpaved roads and agricultural land. The onset of the wet season (June-October) brings a temporary improvement. Rainfall effectively washes away accumulated dust and suppresses particulate matter. However, increased humidity can promote the formation of mold and mildew, potentially exacerbating respiratory issues. September and October, while wetter, can experience localised flooding, leading to stagnant water and increased mosquito populations, indirectly impacting public health. Temperature inversions, common during the transition periods between seasons, can trap pollutants near the ground. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing respiratory conditions – should limit strenuous outdoor activity during the dry season and be mindful of potential mold exposure during the wet season.