Last updated: January 18, 2025
Machakos, Kenya, exhibits a diverse climate characterized primarily by the Köppen-Geiger classifications of Cwb and Cfb. This region experiences an average temperature of 20°C (69°F), with seasonal fluctuations evident in the cooler months, where minimum temperatures can drop to 10°C (50°F) in August. Peaks can reach up to 33°C (91°F) during the same month, reflecting the dynamic weather patterns typical of this area. The interplay between these temperature ranges influences local ecosystems and agricultural practices, making Machakos a fascinating region for climate studies.
In Machakos, Kenya, temperature patterns exhibit a distinct seasonal rhythm throughout the year. The warmer months of January and February feature minimum temperatures around 12°C (54°F) and maximums reaching 32°C (89°F), with average temperatures slightly increasing to 21°C (71°F). As the season transitions into March, temperatures peak, hitting a maximum of 33°C (91°F), while minimums rise to 14°C (57°F). The onset of the cooler months, particularly June and July, sees a notable drop, with minimums settling at 10°C (50°F) and daytime highs averaging 28-29°C (83-85°F), reflecting a comfortable yet more temperate climate. This cool phase lingers until early August, after which temperatures gradually warm up again, culminating in similar averages in October and November that echo the earlier part of the year. Throughout the year, Machakos maintains an appealing balance of temperatures, making it an attractive destination influenced by its seasonal variations.
Athi River, Konza, and Machakos experience similar temperature ranges throughout the year, with August having a minimum temperature of 10°C (50°F) and March reaching maximums of 31°C (89°F) in Athi River and Machakos, while Konza sees a slightly lower maximum of 31°C (88°F). For more detailed monthly temperature information, you can refer to Athi River monthly temperatures in Athi River, Konza monthly temperatures in Konza, and Machakos monthly temperatures in Machakos.
In Machakos, Kenya, precipitation patterns exhibit a marked seasonal trend, with distinct wet and dry periods throughout the year. The long rainy season, typically spanning from March to May, sees a significant increase in rainfall, peaking in April at 173 mm (6.8 in) over approximately 25 days. This is followed by substantial rainfall in November at 135 mm (5.3 in), creating a secondary peak that enriches the region's agricultural productivity. Notably, March also contributes with 100 mm (3.9 in), while May adds a substantial 92 mm (3.6 in), making these months crucial for sustaining local crops and ecosystem vitality.
Conversely, the months from June to August experience a marked decrease in precipitation, with July and August receiving only 13 mm (0.5 in) each across a mere 2-3 days of rain, reflecting a typically dry season. The year rounds out with moderate rainfall in October and December, recording 62 mm (2.5 in) and 107 mm (4.2 in) respectively, as the transition towards the new rainy season begins. Overall, the precipitation distribution in Machakos underscores the region's reliance on its rainy seasons for moisture and sustenance, while the brief dry spells allow for necessary agricultural cycles.
In Machakos, Kenya, sunshine duration exhibits a pronounced seasonal pattern that significantly influences the region's climate and agricultural practices. Notably, the months of October and December stand out, boasting the highest sunshine hours at 343 and 344 hours, respectively. This period marks the transition into a sunny summer that follows the rainy seasons, allowing for ample sunlight to support crop growth and enhance outdoor activities. The month of March also captures attention, with 337 hours of sunshine, indicating the onset of increasing solar exposure that characterizes the tail end of the long rainy season.
Contrastingly, while the early part of the year offers robust sunshine, the months of April and June experience a slight dip, recording 317 and 308 hours of sunshine, revealing a transitional phase influenced by intermittent rains. However, the overall trend demonstrates a steady rise in sunshine hours from the cooler months of January and February, culminating in a brighter late year. This pattern not only highlights the favorable conditions for agricultural productivity throughout Machakos but also illustrates the region's appeal for solar energy utilization and tourism, particularly during its sunniest months.
The UV Index in Machakos, Kenya, remains consistently high throughout the year, indicating the potential for extreme exposure to ultraviolet radiation. The peak occurs during the early months, particularly in March, when the UV Index reaches an impressive 17, necessitating a burn time of just 10 minutes for unprotected skin. This trend of extreme UV exposure continues in January and February, with indices of 15 and 16, respectively. Such high levels of UV radiation underscore the importance of sun protection for residents and visitors alike during these months.
As the year progresses, the UV Index slightly declines but remains within the extreme category, with values ranging from 12 to 15. Notably, June and July maintain a UV Index of 12, indicating that even during the cooler months, caution against sun exposure is essential. The indices during the later part of the year, including November and December, hover around 13 to 14, reinforcing the need for protective measures. Overall, the persistent extreme UV levels highlight Machakos as a region where sun safety should be a priority year-round, particularly for outdoor activities.
UV Risk Categories
Machakos, Kenya experiences a remarkably consistent pattern of daylight duration throughout the entire year, with each month receiving an average of 12 hours of daylight. This uniformity can be attributed to its equatorial location, which minimizes seasonal variations in daylight hours. As a result, residents and visitors can enjoy a balanced distribution of sunlight and darkness, fostering a steady rhythm of daily activities and agricultural practices that rely on predictable daylight.
The consistent 12-hour daylight duration not only simplifies planning for outdoor activities but also supports the region's agricultural cycles, allowing crops to benefit from ample sunlight year-round. This reliability serves as a catalyst for various sectors, including tourism and renewable energy, as the predictability of daylight hours enhances opportunities for solar energy generation. Overall, the stable daylight environment of Machakos reflects its equatorial climate, making it an ideal location for activities that thrive under consistent sunlight.
Athi River, Kenya experiences a temperate climate characterized by warm temperatures and distinct wet and dry seasons. Average temperatures range from a minimum of 10°C (50°F) in the cooler months of July and August to a maximum of 31°C (89°F) in March and April. Rainfall peaks in April at 174 mm (6.8 in), followed by significant precipitation in November and May, while July and August see the least with just 19 mm (0.7 in). The region enjoys ample sunshine throughout the year, with the highest hours recorded in October at 348 hours. For more details, visit Athi River climate.
Kangundo, Kenya experiences a temperate climate with distinct temperature variations throughout the year. Average temperatures range from 19°C (67°F) in July to 23°C (73°F) in March, with maximums peaking at 33°C (91°F) in March and August. Rainfall is significant during the long rainy season from March to May, with April receiving the highest precipitation at 163 mm (6.4 in). Sunshine hours are abundant, reaching up to 344 hours in December. For more details, visit Kangundo climate.
The climate in Konza, Kenya features a warm temperate pattern, with average temperatures ranging from 18°C (65°F) in July to 22°C (72°F) in March. Rainfall peaks in April with 156 mm (6.1 in) and accumulates significantly from March to November, while June and July experience the lowest precipitation. Sunshine is abundant, particularly in March and October, both boasting over 335 hours of sun. Overall, the area provides a pleasant climate for various activities throughout the year. For more details, visit Konza climate.
Machakos, Kenya experiences a warm climate with average temperatures ranging from 18°C (65°F) in July to 22°C (71°F) in March. The region sees significant rainfall, particularly from March to November, with April receiving the highest precipitation at 199 mm (7.8 in). Sunshine hours are abundant, peaking at 343 hours in both October and December. Overall, Machakos offers a mix of warm temperatures and varying rainfall throughout the year, making it essential for residents and visitors to plan accordingly. For more information, visit Machakos climate.
In conclusion, Machakos, Kenya, presents a unique climatic profile characterized by consistent temperature patterns, abundant sunshine, extreme UV exposure, and stable daylight duration throughout the year. The region's Köppen-Geiger climate classifications reveal significant seasonal trends essential for agriculture, with rainfall peaking during distinct rainy seasons and sunshine fostering growth during dryer months. Moreover, the consistently high UV Index emphasizes the necessity of sun protection, while the uniform 12 hours of daylight across the year facilitates predictable planning for both residents and visitors. Collectively, these climatic elements enhance Machakos's appeal as a vibrant agricultural hub and a desirable destination for those seeking a warm and sunny environment, while also necessitating awareness and precautions regarding UV exposure.