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Atakpamé, nestled within Togo’s Plateaux Region, occupies a geographically significant position at approximately 7.53° N, 1.13° E. The city’s terrain is characterized by gently undulating hills, a consequence of the Precambrian basement rock underlying the region. This topography influences local air circulation patterns, potentially trapping pollutants under certain meteorological conditions. Situated roughly 130 kilometers north of Lomé, Togo’s capital and primary port, Atakpamé benefits from, and is subtly impacted by, the coastal influences. The surrounding landscape is a mosaic of agricultural land – predominantly cocoa, coffee, and yam cultivation – interspersed with savanna woodlands. This agricultural activity, while vital to the local economy, contributes to seasonal particulate matter emissions, particularly during harvesting and burning periods. The urban–rural gradient around Atakpamé is relatively gradual, with smaller villages and agricultural plots blending seamlessly into the city’s periphery. The city itself exhibits a developing urban character, with a mix of traditional housing and more modern constructions. While not directly adjacent to a major river, Atakpamé draws water from smaller streams and boreholes, and the regional climate is influenced by the nearby Keran River basin. The absence of large-scale industrial zones within the immediate vicinity mitigates some industrial pollution risks, though transportation-related emissions and agricultural practices remain key factors shaping local air quality. The elevation, averaging around 200-300 meters above sea level, contributes to temperature inversions during the dry season, potentially exacerbating air pollution episodes.

Atakpamé experiences a tropical savanna climate, dictating a distinct wet and dry season cycle that profoundly impacts air quality. The dry season, typically spanning from November to March, is characterized by lower humidity and reduced rainfall. This period often sees a build-up of pollutants due to decreased atmospheric cleansing by precipitation. Temperature inversions, common during the cooler nights of the dry season, trap pollutants closer to the ground, leading to potentially elevated concentrations. Agricultural burning, a traditional practice for land clearing and crop residue disposal, intensifies during this time, releasing significant amounts of particulate matter and contributing to haze. The wet season, from April to October, brings frequent rainfall and higher humidity, naturally dispersing pollutants and improving air quality. However, heavy rainfall can also lead to increased soil erosion and dust events, temporarily impacting air quality. Wind patterns are generally light and variable throughout the year, but during the dry season, periods of calm can prolong pollution episodes. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the dry season, particularly during agricultural burning periods (December-February). Limiting outdoor exertion and avoiding areas with visible smoke are advisable. The transition months (April and October) often experience fluctuating conditions, with periods of rain interspersed with drier spells, requiring adaptable health precautions. Fog, occasionally occurring during the cooler dry season mornings, can further concentrate pollutants, demanding heightened awareness and protective measures.