Last updated: January 18, 2025
Kilifi, Kenya, exhibits a warm climate classified under the Köppen-Geiger system as "As," indicative of tropical savanna conditions. The region experiences a moderate temperature range, with a minimum of 19°C (67°F) notably recorded in September, and an impressive average of 26°C (80°F) throughout the year. The peak temperature reaches as high as 36°C (96°F) during the sweltering month of March. This climatic profile underscores Kilifi's characteristic warmth, influenced by its geographical location and seasonal variations, making it a unique area for both ecological and human activities.
Kilifi, Kenya, showcases distinct temperature patterns throughout the year, characterized by a warm tropical climate. The early months, from January to March, experience relatively high average temperatures, peaking at 28°C (82°F) in March, with maximums reaching 36°C (96°F). As the rainy season approaches in April and May, temperatures remain warm but slightly dip, with averages around 26-28°C (79-82°F). The cooler winter months of June to September bring temperatures down further, with averages settling at 25°C (77°F), and minimums occasionally dipping to 19°C (67°F). As the year progresses towards October and November, there is a gradual warming trend again, culminating in another rise in temperatures, reinforcing the tropical savanna climate and the region's seasonality.
Kilifi experiences a minimum temperature of 21°C (71°F) in September and peaks at 34°C (93°F) in April, as detailed in the monthly temperatures in Kilifi. In nearby Malindi, temperatures range from a minimum of 22°C (72°F) in August to a maximum of 34°C (94°F) in March, highlighted in the monthly temperatures in Malindi. Mariakani records slightly cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 19°C (67°F) in September and reaching up to 36°C (96°F) in March, as noted in the monthly temperatures in Mariakani.
Kilifi, Kenya, experiences a distinct monsoonal pattern in its precipitation throughout the year, with rainfall varying significantly across the months. The year begins with relatively low rainfall in January and February, receiving only 23 mm and 24 mm, respectively. However, as the month of March progresses, precipitation increases dramatically to 71 mm, marking the beginning of the wet season. April sees a peak rainfall of 120 mm, followed by May’s substantial 243 mm, signifying the region's transition into its primary rainy season, characterized by frequent downpours and increased humidity.
Later in the year, precipitation begins to taper off after the peak wet months. From June to September, Kilifi receives lesser amounts of rain, ranging from 40 mm to 64 mm, as the landscape cools and stabilizes. October marks a resurgence with 122 mm, followed by November and December, which bring 92 mm and 74 mm, respectively. Throughout this climate cycle, the rainfall days are notably high during the wet months, with April witnessing the most, at 25 days, while the drier months feature fewer rainy days, showcasing the region's clear seasonal shifts in precipitation patterns.
Kilifi, Kenya, basks in abundant sunshine, with clear seasonal trends that reveal a dynamic interplay between sunlight and climatic variations. The year opens strong with 289 hours of sunshine in January, steadily climbing to its peak in March, where residents can enjoy 348 hours of radiant sunshine. This period marks the transition from the cooler months to a warm peak before the arrival of the rainy season. As precipitation begins in April, sunshine hours slightly decline, but they remain generous at 317 hours, and continue to hold steady through May and June, demonstrating the resilience of sunny days even amidst increasing rainfall.
As winter fades into summer, Kilifi experiences a remarkable return to vibrant sunlight. July and August emerge as some of the sunniest months, boasting 347 hours and 349 hours respectively. Following this period, the total hours of sunshine remain consistently high through September at 340 hours, indicating a sustained brightness in the late winter. The year concludes with a remarkable 355 hours of sunshine in December, embodying the region's favorable climatic attributes. Overall, Kilifi's sunshine duration underscores a tropical climate that, while subject to seasonal changes, consistently offers ample sunny days throughout the year.
Kilifi, Kenya experiences consistently high UV Index levels throughout the year, reflecting its tropical location and intense solar radiation. The beginning of the year exhibits extremely high UV readings, with a peak of 15 in February and March, categorizing the exposure as extreme and necessitating precautions for skin protection within just 10 minutes of sun exposure. Even in April, as the region transitions toward the rainy season, the UV Index remains elevated at 14, highlighting the urgency for sun safety at all times of the year.
As the year progresses, although there is a slight decline in the UV Index, values remain distinctly high. For instance, both June and July report an index of 11, still classified as extreme, establishing a strong warning for individuals planning outdoor activities. Post-winter months such as August and September see a return to 13, maintaining the call for vigilance against sun exposure. Overall, with the UV Index consistently ranking in the extreme category, residents and visitors in Kilifi should take proactive measures for sun protection year-round.
UV Risk Categories
Kilifi, Kenya, enjoys a consistent daylight duration throughout the year, reflecting its equatorial location. From January through April, residents experience an average of 12 hours of daylight daily, providing ample opportunity for outdoor activities and leisure. This stable daylight pattern underscores the region's favorable conditions that promote a vibrant lifestyle year-round, as the long hours of sunshine contribute to ideal agricultural practices and tourism.
As the year transitions into the cooler months of May to August, daylight duration slightly decreases to 11 hours per day. Despite this reduction, Kilifi retains a relatively balanced light distribution that minimizes the impact of seasonal changes on daily life. Interestingly, the daylight hours rebound in September, returning to 12 hours, and remain steady through December, marking the transition back to longer days. This characteristic of consistent daylight emphasizes Kilifi's unique climate, enhancing its appeal as a destination where natural light plays an integral role in the daily rhythm of its community.
Kilifi, Kenya, experiences a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures and varied rainfall throughout the year. Daily temperatures range from a minimum of 21°C (71°F) in cooler months to a maximum of 34°C (93°F) in warmer months, such as April. Rainfall peaks in May with 269 mm (10.6 in), while the rest of the year remains relatively dry, particularly from June to October. The region benefits from abundant sunshine, averaging up to 348 hours in August. For more detailed information, visit Kilifi climate.
Malindi, Kenya, experiences a warm tropical climate characterized by consistently high temperatures throughout the year. January to March sees maximum temperatures reaching up to 34°C (94°F), while June to August remains cooler, averaging around 25°C (78°F). Rainfall varies significantly, with May recording the highest precipitation at 252 mm (9.9 in), while the dry months of January and February see less than 15 mm. The region enjoys abundant sunshine, peaking in December with 357 hours, making it an attractive destination for beachgoers. For more detailed information, visit Malindi climate.
Mariakani, Kenya experiences a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures and distinct wet and dry periods. Temperatures range from a minimum of 19°C (67°F) in July and August to a maximum of 36°C (96°F) in March. The wettest months are April and May, with rainfall peaking at 182 mm (7.2 in) in May, while January and February are relatively dry with 30 mm (1.2 in) each. Sunshine is abundant, particularly in March and August, with over 340 hours of sunlight per month. For more detailed information, visit Mariakani climate.
Takaungu, Kenya, experiences a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures and distinct wet and dry seasons. Average monthly temperatures range from 25°C (77°F) to 28°C (82°F), with highs peaking at 34°C (93°F) in April. The region sees significant rainfall from April to May, with May averaging 269 mm (10.6 in), while the dry months, like July and August, receive less than 50 mm (2 in). Sunshine is abundant throughout the year, with July and August boasting over 340 hours of sun. For more detailed climate information, visit Takaungu climate.
In conclusion, Kilifi, Kenya, presents a dynamic climatic profile characterized by warm temperatures, abundant sunshine, and high UV Index levels throughout the year, combined with noticeable seasonal variations in precipitation and daylight duration. The region's tropical savanna climate not only fosters rich biodiversity but also supports various agricultural activities and outdoor lifestyles. The consistent daylight and significant annual sunshine contribute to an inviting environment for residents and visitors alike, making Kilifi a unique destination. With an understanding of its climatic patterns and an awareness of the associated health implications, individuals can better appreciate and navigate the vibrant landscapes and cultural richness that this coastal region has to offer.