Turkana Climate

Last updated: January 18, 2025

The climate of Turkana, Kenya, is categorized within the Koppen-Geiger system as BSh, indicative of a hot semi-arid environment. Characterized by warm temperatures throughout the year, the region experiences a minimum temperature of 19°C (67°F) in January, an average of 29°C (85°F), and peaks at a scorching 40°C (104°F) in March. These conditions underscore Turkana's unique climate dynamics and inform both local ecosystems and human activities in this arid landscape.

Turkana temperature by month

The temperature patterns in Turkana, Kenya, reveal a distinct seasonal rhythm, characterized by warm conditions throughout the year. January marks the onset of a gradual warming trend, with minimum temperatures starting at 19°C (67°F) and reaching maximums of 38°C (101°F). As February progresses, temperatures rise slightly, peaking at 39°C (103°F) in the daytime. March continues this trend, reaching the year’s highest maximum of 40°C (104°F), while April sees a plateau in highs. From May to July, there is a subtle drop in temperatures, with averages around 28-29°C (82-84°F), reflecting the cooler months of the year, where nighttime lows stabilize around 21-22°C (70-72°F). This phase gives way to a slight warming again in August and September, with average temperatures hovering around 30°C (86°F). Overall, Turkana showcases a consistent pattern of warmth, punctuated by minor fluctuations that lend a unique character to its climate year-round.

Monthly Temperatures in Turkana, Kenya

The chart illustrates Turkana's temperature patterns throughout the year, with values aggregated from various locations across the region. It highlights seasonal variations and temperature changes across the months.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec868788868583828485858584
Data source: Turkana temperature data aggregated from multiple regional locations, generated using Copernicus Climate Change Service information.
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The average of daily temperatures (24 hours) calculated across all days in the month.

Lodwar experiences a temperate climate, with January temperatures dipping to a minimum of 19°C (67°F) and soaring to a maximum of 40°C (104°F) by March. This variation highlights the distinctive warm weather typical of the region. For more detailed insights, you can check the monthly temperatures in Lodwar.

Precipitation Patterns in Turkana

Precipitation in Turkana, Kenya, is marked by distinct seasonal variations, with the majority of rainfall occurring in the early part of the year. January and February are characterized by their relative dryness, receiving only 10 mm (0.4 in) and 8 mm (0.3 in) of rain respectively over just one day each month. This arid climate shifts in March, where rainfall increases significantly to 43 mm (1.7 in), gradually peaking in April with 80 mm (3.2 in)—the wettest month in the region. Following this peak, May sees a slight decrease to 68 mm (2.7 in), blending into a more moderate precipitation pattern during the cooler months of June and July, where both months receive approximately 49 mm (1.9 in).

The latter half of the year indicates a return to lower precipitation levels, with August and September seeing drops to 15 mm (0.6 in) and 28 mm (1.1 in), respectively. October marks a resurgence in rainfall, with totals reaching 67 mm (2.6 in), followed by 51 mm (2.0 in) in November, before tapering off again in December to 19 mm (0.8 in). Overall, the rainfall distribution reflects a clear seasonal pattern, with a concentration of precipitation during the months of April and October, demonstrating how the climate of Turkana adapts to the regional weather cycles.

Monthly Average Precipitation in Turkana, Kenya

The average monthly precipitation in Turkana, providing insights into seasonal rainfall patterns and the region's precipitation trends throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec10843816849491528675120
Data source: Turkana precipitation data aggregated from multiple regional locations, generated using Copernicus Climate Change Service information.
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Sunshine Duration in Turkana

In Turkana, Kenya, the sunshine duration exhibits a striking seasonal trend, showcasing an impressive increase in sunlight hours as the year progresses. Starting at 287 hours in January, the region experiences a steady rise throughout the early months, peaking in March with a remarkable 349 hours. The pattern remains consistent into the following months, reaching a high of 357 hours in August and averaging between 338 to 355 hours during the middle of the year. This sustained abundance of sunshine is characteristic of Turkana's climate, allowing for vibrant ecosystems and supporting agricultural practices that thrive under prolonged sunlight.

As the year transitions towards its end, sunshine hours remain abundant, yet subtly decrease, with November receiving 341 hours and December 356 hours. This decline, while minimal, reflects the onset of the shorter days typical of the year's final quarter. Overall, Turkana enjoys a consistent and generous distribution of sunlight, with the spring and summer months serving as a highlight, underscoring the region's arid yet vibrant climate. The notable consistency in sunshine hours not only enhances the natural beauty of Turkana but also plays a crucial role in shaping the livelihood of its inhabitants.

Monthly Sunshine in Turkana, Kenya

Monthly sunshine duration represents the total hours of direct sunlight Turkana receives each month, excluding periods when the sun is obscured by clouds or other obstructions.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec287h317h349h337h355h338h350h357h346h353h341h356h
Data source: Turkana sunshine duration data aggregated from multiple regional locations, generated using Copernicus Climate Change Service information.

Turkana UV Index Trends

In Turkana, Kenya, the UV Index remains consistently high throughout the year, reflecting the region's proximity to the equator and its predominately sunny climate. Beginning with an astonishing UV Index of 14 in January, the months of February and March witness a further rise, reaching 16, classified as extreme. This extreme exposure emphasizes the necessity for adequate sun protection during these months, where even short exposures can result in sunburn in as little as 10 minutes. The values remain elevated through April and May before slightly tapering off in late spring and early summer.

As the year progresses into mid-year, the UV Index moderately declines, settling around 12 to 13 from June through November, still categorized as extreme. Although this reduction may offer slight relief, it underscores the importance of continued vigilance against UV radiation. Given that burn time remains constant at 10 minutes throughout the year, individuals must take precautions when engaging in outdoor activities. Collectively, these data highlight Turkana's unique climatic conditions, where sun safety remains a year-round concern for residents and visitors alike.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Turkana, Kenya

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Turkana. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec141616151412121313131212
Data source: Turkana UV Index data aggregated from multiple regional locations, generated using Copernicus Climate Change Service information.

UV Risk Categories

  •  Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
  •  Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
  •  High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
  •  Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
  •  Low (0-2): No protection needed.

Daylight Hours in Turkana

In Turkana, Kenya, daylight duration exhibits a relatively stable pattern throughout the year, consistent with its equatorial location. January starts with 11 hours of daylight, before transitioning into longer days in February at 12 hours. This increase in daylight continues, maintaining the 12-hour mark consistently from March through October, offering ample sunlight for various activities and supporting the agricultural needs of the region. This consistent exposure to natural light plays a significant role in the daily routines of residents, allowing for extended working hours and outdoor pursuits.

As the year closes, daylight hours slightly diminish again, dropping back to 11 hours in both November and December. This subtle shift towards shorter days signals the end of the year and introduces a cycle that is characterized by relatively equal lengths of day and night. The uniformity of daylight duration in Turkana not only reinforces its climate's predictability but also highlights the importance of sunlit hours for ecologically sustainable practices and community life throughout the seasons.

Average Monthly Daylight Hours in Turkana, Kenya

This chart shows the total daylight hours Turkana receives each month, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec11h 56m12h12h 5m12h 10m12h 14m12h 17m12h 15m12h 11m12h 6m12h 1m11h 57m11h 56m
Data source: Turkana daylight hours, calculated based on aggregated data for various regional locations, determined by the times between sunrise and sunset.

Climate Highlights of Turkana's Popular Destinations

Lodwar, Kenya experiences a hot semi-arid climate characterized by high temperatures throughout the year, with average daily highs ranging from 28°C (83°F) in June and July to 31°C (88°F) in January and February. The region sees its highest rainfall in April (80 mm) and May (68 mm), while the rest of the year remains relatively dry, especially from January to February. Despite occasional rain, Lodwar enjoys abundant sunshine, peaking in August with 357 hours. Overall, the climate is marked by warm temperatures and a distinct wet and dry seasonal pattern, making it essential for visitors to prepare accordingly. More details can be found at Lodwar climate.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Turkana, Kenya, exemplifies a region where climatic elements such as temperature, precipitation, sunshine duration, UV Index, and daylight hours create a unique environmental tapestry. The area's hot semi-arid climate results in warm temperatures year-round, with distinct seasonal patterns observed in both rainfall and sunshine. The consistently high UV Index underscores the need for sun protection, particularly during the peak months, while the stable daylight duration facilitates a lifestyle closely tied to the rhythms of nature. Together, these factors not only shape the ecological landscape of Turkana but also influence the cultural practices and livelihoods of its residents, emphasizing the interplay between climate and daily life in this vibrant region.

Discover the Climate of Turkana's Places

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