Last updated: January 18, 2025
Vihiga, Kenya, features a Koppen-Geiger climate classification of Am, characterized by a tropical monsoon climate. Throughout the year, temperatures exhibit a range that underscores the region's warm and humid conditions. The minimum recorded temperature in August is approximately 16°C (61°F), while the average temperature hovers around 22°C (71°F). The warmest month is March, where temperatures peak at a maximum of 33°C (91°F), highlighting the climatic variability that influences both local ecology and agriculture.
In Vihiga, Kenya, temperature patterns exhibit a distinct seasonal rhythm characterized by relatively stable averages throughout the year. The region experiences a mild minimum temperature that ranges from 16°C (61°F) to 17°C (63°F), predominantly observed during the cooler months of June to August. Average temperatures generally fluctuate between 21°C (70°F) and 23°C (73°F), with the warmest months being January and February, where temperatures rise to about 31°C (88°F) and 32°C (89°F) respectively. The transition into the long rainy season around April brings slightly cooler averages, settling back to around 21°C (71°F). Meanwhile, the warmest peak occurs in March, reaching 33°C (91°F), after which temperatures gradually moderate as the year progresses. Such patterns reflect the region's susceptibility to both dry and wet seasons, fundamental to its agricultural practices and local ecosystems.
Mbale experiences a temperature range that varies throughout the year, with a minimum of 16°C (61°F) in August and a maximum of 33°C (91°F) in March. This variation in climate influences the region's activities and lifestyle, making it essential to consider the monthly temperatures in Mbale when planning any events or travel. For more detailed information, you can visit monthly temperatures in Mbale.
Vihiga, Kenya, experiences a pronounced wet-dry cycle, with precipitation peaking during the long rainy season from March to May. March stands out with considerable rainfall of 218 mm (8.6 in) over 22 days, leading into April, which receives the highest total at 285 mm (11.2 in) spread across 26 days. The precipitation gradually decreases in May to 252 mm (9.9 in), marking a significant contribution to the region's water resources, which are vital for agriculture and local ecosystems.
Conversely, the drier months are characterized by lower rainfall totals and fewer rainy days. January and February see relatively modest precipitation of 89 mm (3.5 in) and 104 mm (4.1 in), respectively, with only 11 and 15 rainy days. This trend persists through the mid-year months of June and July, where rainfall remains limited to approximately 110 mm (4.3 in) and 103 mm (4.1 in), with 21 and 18 rainy days. The onset of the short rainy season in September brings increased rainfall once again, totaling 141 mm (5.5 in), which helps redefine the region's climatic patterns as it transitions towards the end of the year, wrapping up with 171 mm (6.7 in) in December.
In Vihiga, Kenya, sunshine duration exhibits a noticeable seasonal trend that reflects the region's climatic variations. The year begins with 276 hours of sunshine in January, gradually increasing to 305 hours in February and reaching a peak of 331 hours in March. This early part of the year marks the transition from the wet season to a sunnier climate, allowing for ample sunlight that is beneficial for agriculture and local activities. The months of April and May continue to offer substantial sunshine, with durations of 300 hours and 316 hours respectively, displaying a generally warm and inviting atmosphere leading into the long rainy season.
As the year progresses, a remarkable trend is evident, particularly during the mid-year months of June through August, where sunshine hours remain consistently high, peaking at 335 hours in August. This period sustains a strong balance between warm temperatures and sunlight, creating ideal conditions for growth. Interestingly, although the short rainy season results in slightly variable sunshine hours during the latter part of the year, December rebounds with the highest total of 339 hours, indicating that sunlight remains abundant even as the rainy season approaches its end. Overall, Vihiga enjoys a robust sunshine profile that is integral to its agricultural productivity and the well-being of the community.
Vihiga, Kenya, consistently experiences a high UV Index, reflecting extreme solar radiation levels throughout the year. For the initial months of January to April, the UV Index remains exceptionally high at 15, with burn times as short as 10 minutes, emphasizing the need for protective measures against harmful sun exposure. March sees a slight increase to 16, maintaining the warning signs for individuals exposed to direct sunlight. Such extreme conditions necessitate increased vigilance, as prolonged exposure can lead to serious skin damage and other UV-related health concerns.
Transitioning into the mid-year months, the UV Index begins to show a slight decrease to 11 in June, before rising again to 12 in both July and August. Despite these lower values, the exposure category remains classified as extreme, with the burn time still capped at 10 minutes. As the year progresses towards the end, the UV Index fluctuates between 13 and 14 from September to December, indicating that even during the months most associated with the rainy season, individuals must continue to take adequate precautions. This persistent threat of high UV levels highlights the importance of sun safety practices year-round for the residents of Vihiga.
UV Risk Categories
In Vihiga, Kenya, daylight duration remains remarkably consistent throughout the year, with an average of 12 hours of daylight each day. This uniformity reflects the region's equatorial location, where the length of day and night experiences minimal variation between seasons. As a result, both residents and agricultural practices benefit from a stable amount of sunlight, providing a reliable foundation for daily activities and crop growth.
The consistent 12-hour daylight cycle contributes to a predictable rhythm of life in Vihiga, allowing communities to plan effectively around solar patterns. This stability enhances agricultural productivity, as farmers can optimize their planting and harvesting schedules knowing that they will receive ample sunlight year-round. Overall, the unchanging nature of daylight hours in Vihiga is a key factor that supports the region's ecological and economic dynamics.
The climate in Mbale, Kenya, features warm temperatures year-round, with averages around 21°C to 23°C (70°F to 73°F). January and February are the hottest months, with maximum temperatures reaching up to 32°C (89°F), while June and July are the coolest, averaging around 21°C (70°F). The region experiences significant rainfall, particularly in April (285 mm) and March (218 mm), with the wettest months generally being March to May. Notably, Mbale enjoys ample sunshine, especially in August, with up to 335 hours of sun. For more information, visit Mbale climate.
In conclusion, Vihiga, Kenya, is characterized by its unique climatic conditions that significantly influence both the environment and the lifestyle of its inhabitants. With a consistent Koppen-Geiger climate classification of Am, it experiences tropical monsoon weather featuring stable temperatures and notable rainfall patterns that peak during the rainy seasons. Coupled with high UV Index levels and consistent 12-hour daylight durations, the region's climate fosters ideal conditions for agricultural activities while presenting challenges such as the need for effective sun protection. Understanding these climatic elements is crucial for promoting sustainable practices and enhancing the well-being of the local community, ultimately shaping a resilient future for Vihiga.