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Kadugli, situated in South Kordofan, Sudan, occupies a unique geographic position within the transitional zone between the savanna and the Ethiopian Highlands. Located at coordinates 11.0100, 29.7000, the city rests at an elevation of approximately 520 meters (1,706 feet) above sea level. This altitude, combined with its inland location, significantly influences its air quality. The surrounding landscape is characterised by undulating hills and plains, typical of the Nubian Shield region. Kadugli isn’t proximate to major bodies of water; the nearest significant water source is the Blue Nile, some distance to the east. The urban area is expanding, encroaching upon surrounding agricultural lands, primarily subsistence farming of sorghum and millet. This agricultural activity, while vital to the local economy, contributes to particulate matter pollution through land clearing and seasonal burning of crop residue. A noticeable urban-rural gradient exists, with air quality generally deteriorating closer to the city centre due to increased traffic, charcoal burning for cooking, and dust from unpaved roads. The lack of substantial industrial belts within Kadugli itself doesn’t negate the impact of regional dust storms, frequently originating from the western deserts, which dramatically affect air quality. The terrain funnels winds, potentially exacerbating pollution episodes.

Kadugli experiences a distinct wet and dry season, dictating the annual air quality narrative. The dry season, roughly from November to May, is characterised by consistently poor air quality. Harmattan winds, laden with dust from the Sahara Desert, dominate this period, leading to high particulate matter concentrations. January and February are typically the worst months for respiratory health, with visibility often reduced. Temperature inversions, common during cooler nights in the dry season, trap pollutants near ground level. The onset of the wet season in June brings a temporary reprieve. Rainfall effectively washes away dust and suppresses particulate matter, leading to improved air quality. However, increased humidity can foster mold growth, potentially triggering allergic reactions. July and August, the peak of the rainy season, generally offer the cleanest air. As the wet season wanes in September and October, dust begins to reappear, and air quality gradually declines. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing respiratory conditions – should limit outdoor activity during the dry season, particularly in January and February. Wearing masks can offer some protection. Monitoring local conditions and staying indoors during dust storms is crucial.