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Tiadiaye, nestled within the Thiès region of Senegal, presents a fascinating case study in urban air quality influenced by its specific geographic setting. Located at approximately 14.4209°N, -16.7061°W, the city occupies a relatively flat terrain characteristic of the Senegalese coastal plain. This low elevation, coupled with its inland position roughly 60km east of the Atlantic coast, means maritime influences are moderated, but not absent. The surrounding landscape is primarily savannah and agricultural land, with significant cultivation of peanuts, millet, and maize. Tiadiaye’s position along key transport routes – notably the railway line connecting Dakar to the east – contributes to localised traffic-related emissions. While not a major industrial hub itself, its proximity to the larger industrial zones around Thiès city (approximately 30km to the north) means it can experience pollutant transport. The urban-rural gradient is fairly sharp; the city’s population of around 15,000 is concentrated, contrasting with the surrounding rural agricultural areas. Dust from agricultural activities and unpaved roads is a significant factor, exacerbated by the dry season winds. The lack of substantial natural barriers to air flow means pollutants can accumulate or disperse rapidly depending on prevailing weather patterns, making understanding these patterns crucial for air quality management.

Tiadiaye’s air quality follows a distinct wet-dry seasonal pattern. The dry season, spanning roughly November to May, is typically associated with poorer air quality. This is due to increased dust resuspension from agricultural lands and unpaved roads, combined with reduced rainfall to cleanse the atmosphere. Harmattan winds, blowing from the Sahara, further contribute to particulate matter concentrations during December to February. January and February are generally the months when outdoor activity should be minimised, particularly for those with respiratory conditions. The transition period in March-April sees a mix of dust and increasing humidity. The wet season, from June to October, brings significant improvements in air quality. Rainfall effectively washes away particulate matter, and increased humidity suppresses dust. However, localised flooding can create stagnant water, potentially fostering mould growth and impacting indoor air quality. August and September, the peak of the rainy season, are generally the most favourable months for outdoor activities. Temperature inversions, though less frequent than in temperate climates, can occur during the cooler nights of the dry season, trapping pollutants near ground level. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing respiratory illnesses – should take extra precautions during the dry season, limiting strenuous outdoor activity and monitoring their health.