Last updated: January 18, 2025
Kisumu, Kenya, embodies a tropical climate characterized by its Köppen-Geiger classifications of Af (tropical rainforest) and Am (tropical monsoon). The region experiences a minimum temperature of 12°C (53°F) during February, while the average temperature hovers around 21°C (71°F). In the peak of March, temperatures can soar to a maximum of 36°C (98°F), showcasing the pronounced climatic variability. This combination of consistent warmth and seasonal peaks underscores Kisumu's dynamic weather patterns, influencing both local ecology and human activities.
In Kisumu, Kenya, temperature patterns exhibit a clear seasonal rhythm throughout the year. The year begins with relatively warm conditions, as January and February often see minimum temperatures around 12-13°C (54-55°F) and maximums peaking at 35-36°C (96-97°F), making it the hottest period. As March approaches, nighttime lows slightly increase, but daytime highs remain elevated. Moving into the cooler months from April to August, temperatures gradually decline, with averages hovering between 20-22°C (69-72°F) and maximums generally capping at approximately 30-35°C (86-96°F). Notably, by June and July, the temperatures reach their lowest, signaling the cooler and wetter season. As the year concludes, December experiences a slight warming trend, reminiscent of earlier months, but temperatures remain moderated. This pattern reflects the region’s tropical climate, marked by warm, wet conditions interspersed with cooler, drier months.
In Muhoroni, temperatures range from a minimum of 12°C (53°F) in February to a peak of 34°C (93°F) in March, making it one of the warmer months. Ahero experiences a minimum temperature of 14°C (58°F) in August and can soar to a maximum of 36°C (98°F) in March, coinciding with the hottest period of the year. Meanwhile, Kisumu has a minimum of 16°C (61°F) in August and a maximum of 33°C (91°F) in March. For more detailed monthly temperatures, visit monthly temperatures in Muhoroni, monthly temperatures in Ahero, and monthly temperatures in Kisumu.
Kisumu, Kenya, experiences a pronounced wet season, primarily from March through May. Precipitation peaks in April with 291 mm (11.5 inches), followed closely by May at 278 mm (10.9 inches), both months contributing significantly to the region's annual rainfall. March marks the onset of this rainy period, with 164 mm (6.5 inches) recorded, illustrating a sharp transition from the drier months of January and February, which receive only 69 mm (2.7 inches) and 72 mm (2.8 inches), respectively. This surge in rainfall during the peak months is accompanied by an increase in the number of rainy days, with April averaging 23 days of precipitation.
As the year progresses into the dry season from June to August, Kisumu experiences a notable reduction in rainfall. June sees 101 mm (4.0 inches), while July and August receive 80 mm (3.1 inches) and 96 mm (3.8 inches), respectively. Although drier, these months still retain significant moisture compared to the preceding January and February. The subsequent months of September through December exhibit a varied rainfall pattern, with October and November experiencing notable increases—236 mm (9.3 inches) and 207 mm (8.1 inches), respectively—signaling a return of the wet conditions. The rainfall distribution throughout the year highlights Kisumu's tropical climate, shaped by distinct wet and dry phases, pivotal for its agricultural practices and natural ecosystems.
Kisumu, Kenya, basks in abundant sunshine, particularly during the early months of the year. After a slight dip in January with 276 hours, the sunshine hours steadily increase, peaking in March at 330 hours. Following this peak, the duration of sunny days remains impressive, with April and May recording 299 hours and 317 hours, respectively, showcasing the region's favorable conditions before transitioning into the wetter seasons. This initial half of the year is characterized by a gradual accumulation of sunshine, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities and agriculture.
As Kisumu approaches the mid-year mark, the sunlight hours continue to shine brightly, peaking again in December with an impressive 336 hours. The months from June to August maintain a robust average, with July and August both reaching heights of 331 hours and 335 hours, respectively. This period, while traditionally marked by the rainy season, does not compromise sunshine durations significantly. The consistency of sunshine during these months helps sustain local ecosystems and agricultural productivity. Overall, Kisumu enjoys a remarkable amount of sunlight throughout the year, with notable peaks in the months surrounding the transition from the dry to the wet seasons, emphasizing its favorable climate for both residents and wildlife.
Kisumu, Kenya, is subject to a notably high UV Index, particularly during the first few months of the year. With readings peaking at 17 in March, the UV Index consistently categorizes these months as extreme, requiring diligent sun protection measures. Even in January and February, UV values remain elevated at 15 and 16, respectively, accompanied by a rapid burn time of just 10 minutes. This dangerous level of UV radiation underscores the importance for residents and visitors alike to take precautions, such as applying sunscreen and wearing protective clothing during peak sunlight hours.
As the year progresses, the UV Index remains significantly high, though it dips slightly during the mid-year months. Both June and July maintain a UV Index of 12, while August sees a minor increase to 13. Notably, despite the shift in precipitation patterns typical of the rainy season, the intense UV radiation persists. By the year's end, the UV Index remains above 12, with values of 13 in October, November, and December. This consistent exposure poses ongoing risks, making awareness and proactive sun safety measures crucial for maintaining skin health throughout the year in Kisumu.
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Kisumu, Kenya, experiences a remarkably consistent pattern of daylight duration throughout the year, with each month showcasing approximately 12 hours of sunlight. This stability is a characteristic feature of equatorial regions, where the tilt of the Earth has minimal impact on day length. As such, residents and visitors can expect nearly equal amounts of daylight and darkness regardless of the season. This consistency plays a significant role in agricultural planning and daily life, providing predictable patterns for cropping cycles and other outdoor activities.
The uniform daylight duration also contributes to Kisumu's vibrant ecosystems, as plants and wildlife adapt to the reliable light conditions. With 12 hours of daylight every month, the region’s inhabitants benefit from a steady rhythm of activity, allowing for optimal utilization of the available sunlight for various pursuits, from farming to leisure. This consistent exposure creates a unique environmental landscape that thrives under predictable conditions, fostering a harmonious relationship between the community and its natural surroundings.
Ahero, Kenya experiences a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures year-round. January and February are the hottest months, with maximum temperatures reaching up to 36°C (97°F). The rainy season peaks from March to May, leading to high precipitation levels, especially in April and May, with averages of 267 mm (10.5 in) and 283 mm (11.1 in) respectively. Despite the rainfall, Ahero enjoys abundant sunshine, particularly in August, which boasts around 335 hours of sunlight. For more details, visit Ahero climate.
Kisumu, Kenya, experiences a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures year-round. January sees minimums of around 17°C (62°F) and maximums reaching up to 31°C (88°F), while temperatures gradually decrease to lows of 16°C (61°F) and highs of 27°C (81°F) from June to August. The region receives significant rainfall, particularly in April and May, where precipitation can exceed 250 mm (9.8 in). Kisumu enjoys abundant sunshine, with August typically boasting the most hours at around 335. For more detailed information, visit Kisumu climate.
Muhoroni, Kenya experiences a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures and significant rainfall. Average temperatures range from a minimum of 12°C (54°F) in June, July, and August to a maximum of 34°C (93°F) in March, with the cooler months occurring between June and August. Rainfall peaks in April with 320 mm (12.6 in) and generally decreases towards the end of the year, while the region enjoys ample sunshine, particularly in August with 335 hours. For more detailed information, visit Muhoroni climate.
In conclusion, Kisumu, Kenya, presents a unique climate characterized by its consistent warmth, significant rainfall, abundant sunshine, and stable daylight duration throughout the year. The tropical climate, with its defined wet and dry seasons, supports diverse ecosystems and agricultural practices, while the elevated UV Index emphasizes the need for sun protection. With approximately 12 hours of daylight each month, residents benefit from predictable light conditions that enhance daily activities and contribute to the region's vibrant lifestyle. Understanding these climatic patterns is essential for both locals and visitors, as they navigate the remarkable interplay between weather, climate, and the natural environment in Kisumu.