The climate of Kakamega
Located in western
Kenya, the town of
Kakamega experiences tropical monsoon conditions in line with its Am classification as per the Köppen climate system. This climate type is characterized by substantial amounts of rainfall, high temperatures, and high humidity.
Throughout the year, Kakamega sees average high temperatures ranging from 23.3°C (73.9°F) in
July to 29.8°C (85.6°F) in
February. The temperature, however, does not deviate significantly throughout the year, maintaining a level of consistency. On the other end of the spectrum, the average low temperatures fluctuate between 13.7°C (56.7°F) in
June and 16.3°C (61.3°F) in February. Relative humidity levels hallmark of a tropical climate, hover in the mid to high 70s from
April to
August, with the lowest level of 54% reported in February.
A persistent feature of Kakamega's climate is the generous level of rainfall. The town endures an impressive range of average monthly rainfall from 35mm (1.38") in February to 175mm (6.89") in
May. Corresponding island average rainy days per month extend from a low of 10.8 in February to a high of 25.9 in May. The consistent amount of daylight hour, maintained at 12.1 hours across all months, adds further to the wet, tropical climate's character.
The best time to visit Kakamega
Given the climatic conditions and weather data,
December to
February can be considered the best time to visit
Kakamega. During this period, the town experiences some of the highest average temperatures, ranging from 26°C (78.8°F) to 29.8°C (85.6°F), paired with comparatively lower rainfall levels. February, specifically, sees the lowest rainfall at 35mm (1.38"), making outdoor activities and exploration more desirable. The relative humidity during these months is also lower, offering a more comfortable visiting experience.
The worst time to visit Kakamega
Conversely, a less favorable period to visit
Kakamega might be during the
March to
May timeframe. These months observe some of the highest levels of rainfall, with May standing out at a heavy 175mm (6.89"). High rainfall often coincides with reduced visibility, specifically in March, where visibility drops to 9km (5.6mi). This period also records the highest relative humidity levels, reaching the peak at 85% in
April and May, which might make the atmosphere somewhat uncomfortable for travelers not used to tropical climates.
Spring weather in Kakamega
Spring in
Kakamega, occurring from
March to
May, is characterized by increased rainfall. These months record high precipitation levels, from 85mm (3.35") in March, soaring to 175mm (6.89") in May. Correspondingly, the number of rainy days peaks during this period. The temperatures remain high, with average highs from 26.4°C (79.5°F) to 28.9°C (84°F). The daylight remains constant throughout the year at 12.1 hours.
Summer weather in Kakamega
The summer months from
June to
August in
Kakamega are marked by a slight dip in maximum temperatures, going down to an average high of 23.3°C (73.9°F) in
July and a low of 13.7°C (56.7°F) in June. Precipitation also trends downward during this period but still remains considerable, with July recording 53mm (2.09") of rainfall. Despite being a relatively drier period, summer in Kakamega still witnesses high relative humidity levels, staying above 79%.
Autumn weather in Kakamega
The rainy season returns during the autumn months of
September to
November, underscored by increased rainfall, with November recording the second-highest rainfall of 142mm (5.59"). Daylight hours remain constant at 12.1, while the average high temperatures vary between 24.6°C (76.3°F) and 26°C (78.8°F). The relative humidity levels rise again in these months, augmenting the already significant quantity of rainfall.
Winter weather in Kakamega
Winter in
Kakamega, marked by the months of
December to
February, experiences a slight increase in temperature. The average high temperature goes up to 28.3°C (82.9°F) in December, and the average low stays at 14.8°C (58.6°F). Rainfall during these month's drop, making it the driest season, with February receiving the least rainfall of the year of 35mm (1.38"). However, it is interesting to note that even during the driest season, the amount of rainfall is quite significant. This solidifies Kakamega's status as an area with a tropical monsoon climate.
Weather in January
January in
Kakamega,
Kenya, observes moderate rainfall. The weather tends to be slightly warmer than the following month. Winds are gentle and visibility is clear providing great conditions for outdoor activities. The high temperature in Kakamega in January registers at 28.3°C (82.9°F), with a comforting low of 15.2°C (59.4°F).
Weather in January » Weather in February
Weather in
Kakamega remains warm in
February. The rainfall decreases slightly when compared with
January providing more sunny time. Despite the warm temperatures, the city sees a relative humidity of 54%, enabling comfortable expeditions during the daytime.
Weather in February »Weather in March
In the month of
March,
Kakamega begins to experience increased rainfall, indicating the onset of a new season. This is also the month when the temperature shows a slight dip compared to
February, offering a cooler break. The scenic beauty of the city under a cover of clouds is a sight that attracts many tourists.
Weather in March »
Weather in April
April showers in
Kakamega,
Kenya, result in a beautiful bloom throughout the city while the cooler temperatures provide a pleasant change from the previous months' warmth. The relative humidity rise is noticeable causing a marked shift from the city's usual climate.
Weather in April » Weather in May
May marks an important shift in
Kakamega's weather. This month witnesses a significant dip in temperatures and increase in rainfall compared to the preceding month. Moist and cooler climes gives Kakamega a certain freshness typical of the monsoon months.
Weather in May » Weather in June
June weather in
Kakamega,
Kenya, brings a noticeably cooler climate when compared to the sweltering summer heat observed elsewhere around the globe. The reduction in rainfall and dip in temperature provide a weather break from the preceding month of heavy showers.
Weather in June »
Weather in July
July sees a continuation of the cool climate in
Kakamega, but with a drop in the rainfall. The city seems to maintain a consistent weather pattern making it a dependable destination for summer breaks. The weather characterized by a mild maximum temperature of 23.3°C (73.9°F) and minimum of 13.8°C (56.8°F) promise moderate warmth.
Weather in July » Weather in August
In
August,
Kakamega shows signs of weather improvement transitioning towards the dry season. This month is characterized by relatively dry days that invite an influx of adventure enthusiasts to the city. The weather doesn't deviate much from
July, remaining pleasantly warm and bright.
Weather in August »Weather in September
September, the transition month, boasts of calm and dry weather in
Kakamega. There is a decrease in humidity making it comfortable for outdoor activities. This month witnesses a return of clear skies and a drop in precipitation paving way for sunny days.
Weather in September »
Weather in October
October brings with it a slight increase in temperature but continues maintaining the warm and dry weather. The city of
Kakamega experiences a balance of clear skies and clouds, retaining the charm of the monsoon while enjoying the sunlight.
Weather in October » Weather in November
Moving into
November,
Kakamega experiences cooler weather with moderate to heavy rainfall. The drop in temperature ensures an expansion of the city's lush greenery. This is an excellent time for birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts to visit this city.
Weather in November »Weather in December
In
December, the weather in
Kakamega,
Kenya becomes colder and drier, signaling the approach of a new year. There is a marked decrease in the rainfall compared to the previous month, making it more pleasant for outdoor activities.
Weather in December » [Resources]