Last updated: January 18, 2025
Kwale, Kenya, experiences a tropical climate classified under the Köppen-Geiger system, characterized by warm temperatures year-round. The region sees a minimum temperature of 19°C (66°F) in September, rising to an average of 26°C (80°F). During the warmest month, March, maximum readings can reach an impressive 35°C (96°F). This temperature profile highlights Kwale's appealing yet challenging climatic conditions, marked by significant warmth and a distinct seasonal variation.
Kwale, Kenya, exhibits distinct seasonal temperature patterns, with consistently warm conditions throughout the year. The hottest months are typically January through March, where averages hover around 27°C to 28°C (81°F to 82°F), and maximum temperatures peak at 35°C (95°F to 96°F). As April arrives, a slight cooling trend begins, with temperatures gradually decreasing but remaining warm through May. From June to August, cooler weather sets in, marked by minimum temperatures dropping to 19°C (67°F) and average temperatures around 25°C (77°F). The onset of September sees a return to slightly warmer conditions, with average temperatures of 25°C (77°F), before the year settles into October and November, when temperatures begin to rise again, culminating in a noticeable peak in December. This temperature progression reflects a typical tropical climate, characterized by minimal temperature variation but significant warmth year-round.
In Gazi, temperatures range from a minimum of 22°C (71°F) in October to a maximum of 32°C (90°F) in March, making it relatively warm year-round; details can be found here. Shimoni experiences slightly warmer conditions, with lows of 23°C (73°F) in August and highs reaching 30°C (86°F) in March, as outlined here. Conversely, Kwale boasts the broadest temperature spectrum, with a minimum of 20°C (68°F) in September and a peak of 35°C (94°F) in March, with further information available here.
Kwale, Kenya, experiences a pronounced wet season, with precipitation levels peaking from March through May. March marks a significant shift, with rainfall increasing to 79 mm (3.1 in) over approximately 14 days, setting the stage for the heavy downpours that follow. April sees a dramatic jump in precipitation, reaching 239 mm (9.4 in) spread over 27 days, while May solidifies this trend with a staggering 371 mm (14.6 in) of rain accumulated over 26 days. This period constitutes the heart of the rainy season, bringing much-needed moisture to the region.
Following the peak months, rainfall begins to taper off in June, dropping to 98 mm (3.9 in) and continuing a gradual decline through the mid-year. By July and August, Kwale experiences relatively lower precipitation, around 63 mm (2.5 in) and 64 mm (2.5 in) respectively, as the dry season approaches. Overall, the later months of the year—September to December—bring moderate rains, providing 72 mm (2.8 in) in September and declining to 87 mm (3.4 in) by December. This seasonal rainfall pattern underscores Kwale's tropical climate, characterized by a marked wet season and a transition into drier months.
Kwale, Kenya, showcases a remarkable pattern of sunshine duration throughout the year, with distinct peaks and valleys that correspond to the region's seasonal changes. January begins the year with 290 hours of sunshine, but the real upward trend kicks off in February, with 323 hours recorded. The sunniest month occurs in March, where the region basks in an impressive 348 hours of sunlight. After March, sunshine hours fluctuate but remain relatively high, with consistent figures around 306 to 348 hours from April through September, allowing for a mostly bright and pleasant environment.
As the year progresses into the final months, Kwale witnesses a resurgence in sunshine, peaking again in December with 360 hours of sunlight. This period from October to December showcases a remarkable consistency in sunny days, averaging between 340 and 345 hours. This trend underscores the typical tropically-influenced climate, evidencing not only the warm temperatures but also a favorable balance of sunlight throughout the year. Despite the rainy season dip in hours, the overall annual sunshine data confirms Kwale’s status as a destination with abundant sunshine, making it an appealing location for outdoor activities and agronomy alike.
Kwale, Kenya, is characterized by an extreme UV Index throughout the year, making sun protection a crucial consideration for residents and visitors alike. The UV Index peaks in March at 15, while January, February, April, and May consistently present an extreme level of 14. Throughout these months, the recommended burn time is a mere 10 minutes, emphasizing the intensity of solar radiation. This relentless exposure underscores the need for preventative measures, such as wearing protective clothing and applying sunscreen, to mitigate the risks of sunburn and long-term skin damage.
As the year progresses, the UV Index remains consistently high, with values reducing slightly to 11 in June and July, yet still classified as extreme. From August to December, the Index stabilizes around 13, ensuring that the demand for sun safety remains paramount. Despite the minor fluctuations, the persistent high UV levels across all months remind us of Kwale's tropical climate. Understanding these UV trends not only helps in planning outdoor activities but also reinforces the importance of skin protection in this region, where the sun's intensity can pose significant health risks.
UV Risk Categories
In Kwale, Kenya, daylight duration exhibits a consistent pattern throughout the year, generally ranging between 11 to 12 hours. The year starts and progresses smoothly through January to March, maintaining a steady 12 hours of daylight each day. This abundant sunshine sets a vibrant tone for outdoor activities and agriculture, which thrive in the warm, extended hours of daylight typical of Kenya's equatorial climate.
As the months shift into April through August, daylight decreases slightly to 11 hours, though this does not significantly impact the overall warmth or the region’s dynamic lifestyle. The return to 12 hours of daylight resumes in September and continues through December, ensuring a balance of light that supports both ecological and human activities. This consistent daylight duration, coupled with the region's warm climate, positions Kwale as a locale with favorable conditions for tourism, farming, and fishing throughout the year.
Gazi, Kenya, typically enjoys a warm tropical climate with average temperatures ranging from 25°C (77°F) in the cooler months to 28°C (82°F) during the hottest months. The wettest period occurs from April to May, receiving up to 400 mm (15.7 in) of rainfall, while January and February are relatively drier. Sunshine hours are abundant, peaking at 360 hours in December, providing ample daylight year-round. For more information on weather patterns, visit Gazi climate.
Kinango, Kenya, experiences a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures and seasonal rainfall. The average monthly temperatures range from a minimum of 19°C (67°F) in July and August to a maximum of 35°C (95°F) in January and February. Rainfall peaks in May with 266 mm (10.5 in) and remains significant through April and October, while the sun shines brightly, with up to 358 hours in December. For more detailed climate information, visit Kinango climate.
The climate in Kwale, Kenya, features warm temperatures throughout the year, with average highs typically ranging from 25°C (77°F) in June and July to around 28°C (83°F) in the warmer months of January to March. Rainfall is most pronounced from April to May, with May receiving up to 343 mm (13.5 in) of precipitation. Despite the rainy season, Kwale enjoys a considerable amount of sunshine, peaking in December with 360 hours. Overall, the region presents a tropical climate, making it ideal for outdoor activities. For more detailed information, visit Kwale climate.
Sawa Sawa, Kenya experiences a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures year-round. January to March sees maximum temperatures reaching up to 32°C (90°F), while cooler months from June to September average around 25°C (77°F). The area receives significant rainfall mainly between April and May, with May experiencing the highest precipitation of 400 mm (15.7 in). Sunshine hours are abundant, peaking in December with 360 hours. For more detailed information, visit Sawa Sawa climate.
Shimoni, Kenya enjoys a warm tropical climate characterized by consistent temperatures throughout the year, averaging between 25°C and 29°C (77°F to 85°F). The region experiences significant rainfall from March to May, with April being the wettest month, receiving 341 mm (13.4 in) of precipitation. In contrast, the rest of the year sees comparatively less rain, particularly during the dryer months of July and August. Sunshine is abundant, with December boasting the highest total of 361 hours. For more detailed information, visit Shimoni climate.
In conclusion, Kwale, Kenya, embodies the essence of a tropical climate, characterized by high temperatures, significant seasonal rainfall, ample sunshine, and a consistent pattern of daylight duration. With average temperatures fluctuating between 19°C to 35°C, a pronounced wet season from March to May, and extreme UV Index levels year-round, understanding these climatic features is essential for both residents and visitors. The steady availability of 11 to 12 hours of daylight throughout the year not only enhances the quality of life but also supports agriculture and outdoor activities. Overall, Kwale's climate presents both opportunities and challenges, underscoring the importance of sun safety and sustainable practices in harnessing the region's natural resources.