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Saylac, nestled in the Awdal region of Somalia, presents a unique geographic context influencing its air quality. Situated at coordinates 11.3539, 43.4731, the city occupies a coastal position along the Gulf of Aden, a crucial maritime trade route. The terrain is characterised by a combination of arid coastal plains and the foothills of the Golis Mountains to the south, creating a varied landscape. Saylac’s elevation is relatively low, contributing to limited atmospheric dispersion of pollutants. The surrounding landscape is predominantly semi-arid shrubland and sparse vegetation, with limited agricultural activity concentrated around seasonal water sources. The urban-rural gradient is sharp; Saylac itself is a relatively small settlement, transitioning quickly to pastoral land. The port is the city’s economic engine, handling goods destined for inland Somalia and Ethiopia. This maritime activity, alongside local transport and potential small-scale industrial processes related to fishing and trade, are primary sources of localised air pollution. Dust from the arid environment, exacerbated by wind patterns, is a constant factor. The proximity to the Gulf of Aden also introduces sea salt aerosols, impacting air composition, though not necessarily contributing to harmful pollutants. The prevailing winds, generally from the east, can carry pollutants along the coastline.

Saylac experiences a bimodal rainfall pattern, defining its ‘seasons’ rather than traditional four-season cycles. The *Gu* season (April-June) brings relatively higher humidity and sporadic rainfall, temporarily suppressing dust levels and improving air quality. However, increased maritime traffic during this period, taking advantage of calmer seas, can elevate emissions from shipping. The *Deyr* season (October-December) sees a second, though generally weaker, period of rainfall, offering similar, albeit less pronounced, air quality benefits. The hottest months, January to March, are characterised by intense heat and strong, dry winds – the *Xaysimo* – which dramatically increase dust concentrations, significantly degrading air quality. This is the period to avoid strenuous outdoor activity. July-September, the driest and hottest period, sees a build-up of stagnant air, potentially leading to localised pollution concentrations from port activity and vehicle emissions. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions – should limit outdoor exposure during these months. The cooler evenings during the rainy seasons offer the best conditions for outdoor activity, though localised flooding can create dampness and mould, posing separate health risks. Monitoring wind direction is crucial, as pollutants can be concentrated depending on prevailing patterns.