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Mporokoso, nestled in Zambia’s Northern Province at approximately -9.3833° latitude and 30.1000° longitude, occupies a unique geographical position on the plateau lands. The town’s elevation, around 1,400 meters above sea level, contributes to a relatively cool climate compared to the lower-lying regions of Zambia. The surrounding landscape is characterised by undulating hills and miombo woodland, a dominant vegetation type across much of the province. Mporokoso isn’t directly adjacent to a major body of water, though it lies within the catchment area of several tributaries feeding into the Congo River basin. The urban character is that of a growing provincial capital, transitioning from a primarily administrative and agricultural service centre to a more diversified economy. While not heavily industrialised, the surrounding areas support significant agricultural activity, particularly maize and coffee farming, which can contribute to seasonal particulate matter from land preparation and post-harvest burning. The urban-rural gradient is relatively sharp, with a noticeable increase in dust and localised emissions within the town centre due to vehicle traffic and domestic fuel burning. This geographical setting, combined with prevailing wind patterns, influences the dispersion – or concentration – of pollutants, making understanding local sources crucial for air quality management. The terrain’s gentle slopes can also facilitate temperature inversions, trapping pollutants near ground level.

Mporokoso experiences a distinct wet and dry season, heavily influencing its air quality. The dry season, typically from May to October, sees a significant increase in particulate matter. Reduced rainfall means less atmospheric cleansing, and agricultural practices like slash-and-burn land preparation for the next planting season contribute substantially to smoke and haze. Dust from unpaved roads also becomes more prevalent. October often marks a peak in respiratory issues due to these conditions. The wet season, November to April, generally brings improved air quality as rainfall washes away pollutants. However, increased humidity can also foster mould growth, potentially exacerbating allergies. January and February, the peak of the rainy season, are generally the most favourable months for outdoor activity. Temperature inversions, common during the cooler nights of the dry season, can trap pollutants near ground level, worsening air quality even with limited emissions. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing respiratory conditions – should limit strenuous outdoor activity during the dry season, particularly in October. Monitoring wind direction is also important, as pollutants can be carried from agricultural areas into the town.