Last updated: January 18, 2025
Samburu, Kenya, is characterized by a semi-arid climate, classified under the Koppen-Geiger Aw category. Temperatures in this region exhibit a notable range, with a minimum of 10°C (50°F) recorded in January, and peaking at a maximum of 31°C (88°F) in April. Throughout the year, the average temperature hovers around 19°C (67°F), providing a warm but variable climate ideal for both biodiversity and human habitation. This climatic profile underscores the unique environmental conditions that shape the natural landscape and the livelihoods of the inhabitants of Samburu.
Samburu, Kenya experiences distinct temperature patterns throughout the year, characterized by mild to warm conditions. The year begins with cooler temperatures in January, where minimums dip to 10°C (50°F) and maximums reach 28°C (83°F). As February and March unfold, the temperatures gradually rise, peaking in April at a maximum of 31°C (88°F), while maintaining a consistent average of around 20°C (68°F) during these months. This warmth is followed by a slight cooling trend from May to July, where minimums range from 11°C to 12°C (52°F to 54°F), and maximums decrease to the mid-20s (°C). The arrival of August signals a resurgence in warmth, with temperatures oscillating between 11°C (52°F) for minimums and 28°C (82°F) at their highest. The year closes with temperatures returning to cooler averages in December, reiterating a seasonal rhythm that embodies the semi-arid climate of the region.
Maralal experiences a minimum temperature of 10°C (50°F) in January and reaches a maximum of 31°C (88°F) in April, showcasing a range of climatic conditions throughout its seasonal variations. For further details, visit the provided link: monthly temperatures in Maralal.
Precipitation in Samburu, Kenya, exhibits a pronounced wet season, peaking between April and July, and shaping the region's semi-arid landscape. January begins the year with only 19 mm (0.8 in) of rainfall over just 3 days, but as the months progress, rainfall increases significantly. By March, the total rises to 68 mm (2.7 in) over 10 days, while April experiences the highest monthly total at 109 mm (4.3 in) across 16 days. This trend continues into May and June, with 113 mm (4.5 in) and 108 mm (4.3 in) recorded respectively, highlighting the region's reliance on this critical rain for its ecosystems.
The peak of the rainy season occurs in July, with an impressive 162 mm (6.4 in) of precipitation spread over 18 days, followed by a slight decrease in August, which still contributes 103 mm (4.1 in) during 13 rainy days. September and October see a decline to 78 mm (3.1 in) and 80 mm (3.1 in), respectively, while November and December round off the year with 74 mm (2.9 in) and 50 mm (2.0 in). This cyclical pattern underscores the climate’s variability, revealing how the intensity and frequency of rainfall play a crucial role in shaping both the natural environment and agricultural practices in Samburu.
Samburu, Kenya, basks in abundant sunshine, with a clear trend toward increasing sunlight hours from January to December. The year begins modestly with 289 hours of sunshine in January, gradually climbing to 322 hours in February and reaching a peak of 353 hours in March. As the long dry season approaches, the sunshine remains plentiful, providing a firm foundation for both agriculture and tourism. April experiences a slight dip to 329 hours, likely influenced by the onset of the rainy season, but this is quickly followed by a resurgence in sunshine hours, peaking again in May at 350 hours.
The summer months maintain this positive trend, with June offering 340 hours and July seeing a modest increase to 343 hours. However, the sun truly shines during late summer and early autumn; August boasts the highest sunshine duration of 354 hours, while October matches this count, showing a robust consistency. November and December continue to provide ample sunlight, with 336 hours and 356 hours respectively, closing the year on a bright note. This seasonal pattern indicates that Samburu not only benefits from significant sunshine throughout the year but also experiences a favorable balance of light and moisture, essential for sustaining its diverse ecosystems.
Samburu, Kenya, experiences an extremely high UV Index throughout the year, presenting significant implications for sun exposure and health. Starting in January with a UV Index of 15, the conditions remain perilous, categorizing all months as extreme in terms of exposure risk. February sees a slight increase to 16, followed by March, which reaches a peak UV Index of 17. Even during the rainy season, UV levels maintain their intensity, with April registering 16 and May slightly decreasing to 14, yet still demanding caution as the burn time remains consistently low at just 10 minutes.
As the year progresses, the UV Index shows a gradual decline from its peak, but still remains in the extreme category. June and July both maintain a UV Index of 12, reflecting only a modest decrease, while August sees a slight rise to 13. September and October stabilize at 14, before decreasing again in November and December to 13. This persistent high level of UV exposure underscores the necessity for protective measures, such as wearing sunscreens and appropriate clothing, to mitigate health risks associated with prolonged outdoor activities in Samburu's sunlit environment.
UV Risk Categories
Samburu, Kenya, enjoys a remarkably consistent daylight duration throughout the entire year, with each month offering approximately 12 hours of daylight. This uniformity is characteristic of regions near the equator, where the sun rises and sets at relatively similar times regardless of the season. As a result, the residents of Samburu benefit from a stable cycle of light, making the region well-suited for various agricultural practices and outdoor activities.
This consistent daylight pattern supports not only human activities but also the local ecosystems, allowing plants and animals to thrive year-round. Whether in the height of summer or the midst of the rainy season, the 12-hour daylight offers a predictable framework for life in Samburu. This stability is essential for planning daily routines and agricultural cycles, as the extended exposure to sunlight helps support productivity and enriches the region's biodiversity.
Maralal, Kenya, experiences a temperate climate with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 10°C (50°F) in January and December to a maximum of 31°C (88°F) in April. The average temperature remains fairly consistent around 19°C to 20°C (67°F to 68°F) throughout the year. Precipitation peaks during the rainy season from April to July, with July receiving the highest average of 162 mm (6.4 in). Despite these rainfalls, Maralal enjoys substantial sunshine, particularly in the months of August to December, with December having the most at 356 hours. For more details, visit Maralal climate.
In conclusion, Samburu, Kenya, presents a unique climatic profile characterized by its consistent temperature patterns, significant precipitation, abundant sunshine, extreme UV levels, and a steady daylight duration of 12 hours year-round. These elements from the climate not only shape the daily lives of the residents but also significantly influence the region’s agriculture, biodiversity, and overall ecosystem health. Understanding these climatic variables is crucial for sustainable development, resource management, and enhancing resilience against climate variability. As Samburu navigates the challenges posed by changing climatic conditions, leveraging its consistent daylight and sunshine, while managing the extreme UV and temperature levels will be key to ensuring a thriving future for its communities and natural landscapes.