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Rumbek, the capital of Lakes State in South Sudan, occupies a geographically significant position within the Bahr el Ghazal region. Situated at approximately 6.8000° latitude and 29.6833° longitude, the city lies on a vast, relatively flat expanse of savanna grassland, characteristic of the Nile Basin. The surrounding landscape is dominated by open plains, punctuated by scattered acacia woodlands and seasonal wetlands. Rumbek’s terrain is predominantly low-lying, with an elevation of around 450 meters above sea level, contributing to a tendency for stagnant air conditions, particularly during drier periods. The city is located near the White Nile, although direct access is limited, influencing local humidity and potential for riverine transport. The urban footprint of Rumbek is small, reflecting its limited population of roughly 32,100. The urban–rural gradient is sharp; the city quickly transitions into agricultural land used for sorghum, maize, and livestock grazing. There are no significant industrial belts immediately adjacent to Rumbek, although small-scale workshops and markets contribute to localized pollution. The regional climate, a tropical savanna, dictates a distinct wet and dry season, profoundly impacting air quality through dust storms during the dry season and increased humidity and biomass burning during the wet season. The lack of substantial topographical features limits natural air circulation, potentially trapping pollutants within the city’s boundaries. The flat terrain also makes the city vulnerable to flooding, which can mobilize pollutants and exacerbate respiratory issues.

Rumbek’s air quality follows a predictable seasonal pattern dictated by its tropical savanna climate. The dry season, typically spanning from November to April, is characterized by intense solar radiation and minimal rainfall. This period frequently experiences strong, dry winds sweeping across the savanna, carrying significant quantities of dust and particulate matter from surrounding agricultural lands and exposed soil. These dust storms can dramatically reduce visibility and irritate respiratory systems. Temperature inversions, common during the cooler nights of the dry season, trap pollutants close to the ground, further degrading air quality. The wet season, from May to October, brings increased humidity and frequent rainfall. While rainfall can help to cleanse the air by removing particulate matter, it also coincides with increased biomass burning from agricultural practices, releasing smoke and other pollutants. The combination of humidity and smoke can create hazy conditions and exacerbate respiratory problems. Fog, particularly in the early mornings during the transition periods between seasons, can also trap pollutants. Outdoor activity is generally best avoided during the peak of the dry season (January-March) due to the prevalence of dust storms. The wet season (August-September) presents challenges due to smoke from agricultural fires. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions, should take extra precautions during these periods, such as limiting outdoor exposure and wearing masks when necessary. Maintaining good ventilation indoors and avoiding activities that generate dust are also advisable.