Last updated: January 18, 2025
Marsabit, Kenya, is characterized by a semi-arid climate, according to the Köppen-Geiger classification. The region experiences a minimum temperature of 15°C (59°F) during the cooler month of November, while the annual average temperature hovers around 25°C (78°F). The peak warmth is felt in March, where temperatures can reach a maximum of 37°C (99°F). This temperature variability not only influences local weather patterns but also significantly impacts the ecological dynamics and human activities in the region.
In Marsabit, Kenya, temperature patterns exhibit distinct seasonal trends throughout the year. The warmest months are January through March, where average temperatures peak at around 27°C (81°F), complemented by maximum temperatures that reach 37°C (98°F) in February and March. Following this brief warm spell, temperatures dip slightly during the cooler months of April and May, with averages reducing to 26°C (78°F) and 25°C (77°F), respectively. As the year progresses into the mid-year months of June and July, a further decline is noticeable, with averages around 24°C (76°F) and maximums decreasing to 33°C (92°F). The later months of the year see a stabilization in temperatures, as averages resume to around 25°C (77°F) in September and October, culminating in the year's end with November experiencing cooler averages of 24°C (76°F). Despite the fluctuations, the overall climate remains relatively warm, reflective of its semi-arid classification.
Marsabit experiences a minimum temperature of 18°C (65°F) in July and a maximum of 36°C (97°F) in April, as detailed in the monthly temperatures in Marsabit. In contrast, Moyale records a lower minimum of 15°C (59°F) in November, with a peak of 37°C (99°F) in March, which can be found in the monthly temperatures in Moyale.
Precipitation in Marsabit, Kenya, displays a marked seasonal variation, heavily influenced by distinct wet and dry periods. The year begins with relatively low rainfall, with January receiving only 11 mm (0.4 in) and February slightly lower at 7 mm (0.3 in). However, by March, precipitation increases significantly to 62 mm (2.5 in), signaling the onset of the primary rainy season. This surge peaks in April, where an impressive 135 mm (5.3 in) falls over 18 days, indicating that this month is critical for replenishing local water sources. As May approaches, rainfall decreases to 55 mm (2.2 in), maintaining the rainy season's influence before transitioning into the drier months of June through August, where averages drop dramatically to around 6 mm (0.2 in) per month.
The latter part of the year witnesses a secondary wet period, with notable rainfall returning in October and November. October experiences a substantial 92 mm (3.6 in) over 11 days, while November follows closely with 84 mm (3.3 in) across 14 days. December sees a reduction in precipitation to 33 mm (1.3 in), signaling the end of the wet season. Overall, the annual distribution of rainfall in Marsabit reveals a distinct bimodal pattern, with two peak periods, the first occurring in April and the second in late October and November, providing essential water resources for agriculture and local ecosystems.
In Marsabit, Kenya, sunshine duration demonstrates a prominent seasonal trend characterized by significant fluctuations throughout the year. Beginning in January with 290 hours of sunshine, the region experiences a steady increase, peaking in March at an impressive 355 hours. This upward trajectory highlights the shift into the hotter months, where the sun shines most brilliantly, providing ample daylight for both agriculture and daily activities. April maintains a robust 325 hours, while May continues to bask in sunlight with 346 hours, contributing to a prolonged sunny spell in the lead-up to the short rainy season.
As the year progresses, the sunshine hours gracefully taper but remain relatively high, especially throughout the dry months of June to October, where the range falls between 325 to 341 hours. This consistency during the southern hemisphere's winter months indicates a balance between warmth and daylight despite occasional cloud cover. December rounds off the year with an invigorating 354 hours, revitalizing the environment as it transitions into the rainy season. Overall, Marsabit exhibits a rich tapestry of sunshine throughout the year, with the most sun-drenched months contributing significantly to the region's agricultural productivity and vibrant ecosystems.
The UV Index in Marsabit, Kenya, reveals a consistent and alarming trend of extreme levels throughout the year, highlighting the need for protective measures against harmful solar radiation. January marks the beginning of the year with a UV Index soaring to 14, which intensifies to 16 in March, signifying dangerous exposure levels and a burn time of only 10 minutes for unprotected skin. April and May maintain this extreme classification with UV Index values of 15, underscoring the significance of sun safety during these months. The intensity of UV radiation underscores the necessity for residents and visitors to adopt protective strategies such as wearing sunscreen, hats, and protective clothing, especially during peak hours.
As the year progresses into the mid and late months, the UV Index begins to slightly taper but remains within the extreme exposure category. From June to October, values fluctuate between 12 and 13, still indicating a critical need for UV protection, especially with a persistent burn time of 10 minutes. November and December continue this trend with UV Index readings of 12, reinforcing that caution is essential throughout the entire year in Marsabit. Overall, the relentless UV intensity presents an ongoing challenge for health and safety, emphasizing the importance of awareness and proactive measures to mitigate the risks associated with prolonged sun exposure.
UV Risk Categories
In Marsabit, Kenya, daylight duration exhibits a subtle yet noticeable pattern throughout the year, largely influenced by the region's proximity to the equator. January begins with 11 hours of daylight, gradually increasing to 12 hours in February, where it remains consistent for the next several months. This stable daylight period is particularly beneficial for agricultural activities and daily routines, enabling residents to maximize productivity during these sunnier months. The consistent daylight from March through October emphasizes the equatorial influence, as the sun rises and sets at relatively uniform times.
As the year draws to a close, daylight duration begins to taper again, with November and December both reverting to 11 hours. This slight reduction signals the onset of shorter days, although the change is modest compared to higher latitudinal regions. Overall, the reliable daylight duration in Marsabit provides a constant rhythm for life in the area, supporting both biodiversity and human activities year-round while emphasizing the region's unique climatic characteristics.
The climate in Marsabit, Kenya, features warm temperatures year-round, with average highs ranging from 25°C (78°F) in July to 36°C (97°F) in March and April. Rainfall is relatively low, with a peak in April at 103 mm (4.0 in) and minimal precipitation experienced in the July to August period. The region enjoys abundant sunshine, particularly in March and May, with over 350 hours of sunshine each month. Overall, Marsabit's climate is characterized by a distinct dry and wet season, making it unique in the Kenyan landscape. For more detailed information, visit Marsabit climate.
Moyale, Kenya experiences a warm climate characterized by minimal temperature variation throughout the year. Average daily temperatures range from a low of 15°C (60°F) in January to a high of 37°C (99°F) in March. Rainfall is heaviest from March to April, with April receiving 168 mm (6.6 in) of precipitation. Despite the wettest months, the region enjoys ample sunshine, averaging over 300 hours per month, highlighting its predominantly dry atmosphere. For more detailed information, visit Moyale climate.
In conclusion, Marsabit, Kenya, presents a unique climate profile marked by distinct seasonal patterns in temperature, precipitation, sunshine duration, UV Index, and daylight hours. The region's semi-arid climate features warm temperatures year-round with evident peaks during specific months, while precipitation displays a bimodal distribution with pronounced wet and dry periods. The extreme levels of UV radiation necessitate vigilant sun protection throughout the year, while the stable daylight duration promotes consistent agricultural productivity and daily life. Together, these elements underscore the importance of understanding and adapting to the climatic nuances of Marsabit, enabling residents and visitors to thrive in this vibrant environment while mitigating potential health risks.