Last updated: January 18, 2025
Kakamega, Kenya, exhibits a tropical climate characterized by Koppen-Geiger classifications of Am (Tropical Monsoon) and Af (Tropical Rainforest). Throughout the year, temperatures vary significantly, with a minimum recorded temperature of 12°C (54°F) in August, an average temperature of 22°C (71°F), and a peak of 35°C (95°F) in March. These distinct climate features contribute to the region's rich biodiversity and vibrant ecosystems, making Kakamega a notable area for both scientific research and ecological tourism.
In Kakamega, Kenya, temperature patterns reveal distinct seasonal trends throughout the year. The warmest months occur from January to March, with maximum temperatures peaking at 34-35°C (93-95°F), while nighttime temperatures only dip to around 13-14°C (56-57°F). As the region transitions into the cooler months of April and May, a gradual decrease in daytime highs is noted, averaging 30-33°C (87-92°F), alongside a slight increase in nighttime temperatures. The mid-year months of June to August bring consistent cooling, with maximum temperatures stabilizing around 29°C (84°F) and a notable low of 12°C (54°F) in August. This trend in temperature culminates in September through November, where daytime highs return to the low 30s (87-88°F) but maintain a steady average of 21-22°C (70-72°F), while the cooler nighttime temperatures persist. Overall, this climate profile underscores a tropical monsoon influence, marked by variations in warmth and relative humidity, driving the region’s rich biodiversity.
Kakamega experiences a wide temperature range, with minimums dropping to 12°C (54°F) in August and peaking at 35°C (95°F) in March, as detailed in monthly temperatures in Kakamega. Similarly, both Butere and Mumias see minimum temperatures of 14°C (58°F) in January, while also reaching maximums of 35°C (95°F) in March, with specifics available in monthly temperatures in Butere and monthly temperatures in Mumias.
Kakamega, Kenya experiences a tropical climate with pronounced wet and dry seasons, reflected in its monthly precipitation patterns. The year begins with relatively low rainfall in January, totaling 86 mm (3.4 in) over just 11 days, but this gradually increases through February, reaching 92 mm (3.6 in). The onset of the long rains in March marks a significant uptick in precipitation, with 182 mm (7.2 in) falling over 22 days, leading into April and May, where rainfall peaks at 256 mm (10.1 in) and 259 mm (10.2 in), respectively. This period exemplifies the region's transition into its primary rainy season, promoting rich vegetation and biodiversity.
Following the intense precipitation of April and May, the rainfall begins to taper off during the drier months of June and July, with 133 mm (5.2 in) and 126 mm (5.0 in) of rain, respectively. The short rains season emerges in August and September, contributing an additional 144 mm (5.7 in) and 157 mm (6.2 in) over 24-25 days. October marks a return to heavier rain, with 215 mm (8.5 in), before a gradual decline in showers leading into December, which records 143 mm (5.6 in) over 19 days. This seasonal variability in precipitation is critical for sustaining Kakamega's lush landscapes and unique ecosystems.
Kakamega, Kenya, experiences significant variability in sunshine duration throughout the year, with clear trends indicating seasonal changes. The months of January through March show a consistent increase in sunshine hours, beginning with 277 hours in January and peaking at 331 hours in March. This rise sets the stage for the warmer season, where the abundant sunlight supports the region’s rich biodiversity. Interestingly, although April experiences a slight dip to 302 hours, sunshine remains plentiful, providing a stark contrast to the rainy season that soon follows.
As the year progresses into the mid and late months, sunshine duration stabilizes at impressive levels, notably with August achieving the highest average of 335 hours. This period benefits from clearer skies, resulting in extended daylight and favorable conditions that are essential for local agriculture. Following this peak, sunshine hours remain consistent between 326 to 343 hours from September to December, making the latter part of the year particularly bright. Despite the rainy seasons, the overall trend highlights that Kakamega enjoys substantial sunshine year-round, ensuring vibrant ecosystems and supporting agricultural practices crucial to the region's livelihood.
Kakamega, Kenya, faces extreme UV index levels year-round, reflecting its location near the equator. The UV Index peaks from January to April, consistently registering values between 15 and 16, with an associated burn time of just 10 minutes for unprotected skin. This intense solar radiation during the first quarter of the year poses significant risks, necessitating precautions such as wearing protective clothing and using high-SPF sunscreen to mitigate the dangers of skin damage.
As the year progresses into the wet months of May through August, the UV Index slightly decreases but remains at hazardous levels, averaging between 12 and 13. Despite this modest decline, the exposure category stays categorized as extreme, indicating that individuals should still exercise caution. September through December sees a minor fluctuation with values returning to 13-14, ensuring that residents and visitors alike remain vigilant against UV exposure throughout the year. With sustained high UV levels, understanding protective measures becomes essential for maintaining skin health and overall well-being in Kakamega.
UV Risk Categories
Kakamega, Kenya, enjoys a remarkably consistent pattern of daylight duration throughout the year, averaging approximately 12 hours of daylight per day. This steady exposure to sunlight is a hallmark of regions located near the equator, where the tilt of the Earth's axis has minimal impact on the length of day and night. As a result, the residents of Kakamega experience an even distribution of light across all twelve months, fostering a climate conducive to agricultural practices and diverse ecosystems.
This uniformity in daylight duration not only affects local flora and fauna but also influences daily life and cultural activities within the community. With 12 hours of daylight, individuals can engage in various tasks from sunrise to sunset without significant seasonal alterations. The predictable light cycle supports routines and schedules, allowing the population to thrive in harmony with their environment, despite the fluctuations in weather and UV exposure that characterize other aspects of Kakamega's climate.
Butere, Kenya, experiences a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures and significant rainfall throughout the year. Monthly average temperatures typically range from 21°C to 23°C (70°F to 74°F), with maximums peaking at 35°C (95°F) in March. The wettest months are April and May, receiving over 260 mm (10.2 in) of rain, while January and February receive the least precipitation. Sunshine hours are substantial, with December enjoying the highest at 344 hours. For more details, visit Butere climate.
Kakamega, Kenya experiences a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures and significant rainfall, particularly from March to May and in October. The temperature ranges from a minimum of 12°C (54°F) in August to a maximum of 35°C (95°F) in March, with average monthly temperatures around 21°C (70°F). Rainfall peaks in April with 244 mm (9.6 in) and remains relatively high throughout the year, contributing to lush landscapes. The area enjoys ample sunshine, with hours peaking at 342 in December. For more details, visit Kakamega climate.
Mumias, Kenya, experiences a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures and seasonal rainfall. Average temperatures range from 21°C (70°F) to 23°C (73°F), with maximums peaking at 35°C (95°F) in March. The region receives substantial rainfall, especially from April to May, with precipitation reaching up to 267 mm (10.5 in) in May. Notably, Mumias enjoys considerable sunshine throughout the year, with August featuring the highest at 336 hours. For more detailed information, visit Mumias climate.
In conclusion, Kakamega, Kenya, presents a unique climate characterized by its tropical monsoon and rainforest classifications, marked by consistent temperature patterns and substantial rainfall throughout the year. The region's 12-hour daylight duration provides a stable environment that supports vibrant ecosystems and agricultural practices. Additionally, the extreme UV index underscores the need for protective measures year-round, especially during the peak sunlight months. These climatic elements, combined with ample sunshine, create an intricate interplay that shapes the daily lives of Kakamega's residents, ultimately fostering a rich biodiversity and a thriving community deeply connected to its natural surroundings.