The climate of Lamu
Situated in
Kenya,
Lamu experiences a tropical savanna climate under the Köppen climate classification. More specifically, it belongs to the As category, where a 'summer' dry season is observed. The general climate conditions in Lamu are characterized by high temperatures and variable rainfall throughout the year.
Temperatures fluctuate from 24°C (75.2°F) at the low end to 32°C (89.6°F) at the high end, with minor deviations in between. Rainfall differs strikingly from month to month, ranging from a mere 3mm (0.12") in
February to a substantial 299mm (11.77") in
May. Lamu observes daylight for around 12 hours per day, almost unchanging across the months. Sunshine hours tend to hover between 8 hours to 10 hours, with a negligible change across the months.
Lamu's sea temperature showcases a small variation over the year, from a minimum of 25.4°C (77.7°F) to a maximum of 28.9°C (84°F). The UV index remains high throughout the year, marking Lamu as a location with significant ultraviolet radiation exposure.
The best time to visit Lamu
Considering the varied weather elements, a visit to
Lamu could be most enjoyable from
June to
September. These months experience relatively lower rainfall with totals ranging from 82mm (3.23") to 41mm (1.61"). Furthermore, the average sea temperatures remain pleasant for water activities, at around 26°C (78.8°F). Despite a marginally lower UV index at 10, appropriate precautions for sun exposure should still be taken.
The worst time to visit Lamu
The months from
March to
May could prove challenging for visitors, owing to the high rainfall observed during this period. With March registering an average rainfall of 32mm (1.26"),
April and May witness even higher levels, peaking at 299mm (11.77") in May. Although the temperatures during these months are still high, ranging from 25°C (77°F) to 32°C (89.6°F), the considerable rainfall may restrict outdoor activities.
Spring weather in Lamu
Spring, which spans from
March to
May, brings about an increased level of rainfall in
Lamu. It begins with a relatively moderate 32mm (1.26") in March, surges drastically to 135mm (5.31") in
April and peaks at an extreme 299mm (11.77") in May. Despite the high rainfall, the temperature remains fairly constant, oscillating between 25°C (77°F) and 32°C (89.6°F). The sea temperature experiences a gradual rise through the season, from 26.8°C (80.2°F) in March to 28.9°C (84°F) in May.
Summer weather in Lamu
Witnessing the summer months of
June to
August in
Lamu, rainfall decreases substantially from the spring, registering amounts between 145mm (5.71") and 41mm (1.61"). The temperature during this period hovers around a comfortable 28°C (82.4°F) to 29°C (84.2°F), accompanied by sea temperatures of around 26°C (78.8°F). Despite the reduction in rainfall, the UV index remains relatively high at 10, indicating the need for adequate sun protection.
Autumn weather in Lamu
September to
November marks the autumn months in
Lamu. Lower rainfall levels, ranging from 47mm (1.85") to 42mm (1.65"), offer a more pleasant weather experience. Temperatures during this period range from 23°C (73.4°F) to 30°C (86°F), providing comfortable conditions for outdoor explorations. The sea temperature remains inviting for water-related activities, ranging from 25.8°C (78.4°F) to 27.8°C (82°F).
Winter weather in Lamu
Winter, extending from
December to
February, observes the least amount of rainfall in
Lamu, with rainfall averaging between 7mm (0.28") and 25mm (0.98"). Temperatures during these months range from 24°C (75.2°F) to 32°C (89.6°F), providing a warm winter escape for many travelers. The sea remains at a relatively warm temperature, oscillating between 27.2°C (81°F) and 28.1°C (82.6°F), ideal for water sports and beach outings.
Weather in January
January in
Lamu,
Kenya, ushers in the new year with mild equatorial weather. Heat peaks during the daytime with temperatures ascending to 31°C (87.8°F), making it one of the warmer months of the year. A gentle breeze often blows from the Indian Ocean, assuaging the effect of the radiant sun.
Weather in January » Weather in February
February is an extension of the balmy weather as seen in
January in
Lamu. With sea temperatures plumming to 26.8°C (80.2°F), a slight decrease from the previous month, beach activities continue to be a joy for residents and visitors.
Weather in February » Weather in March
Intense sun coupled with spells of rain best describe weather in
Lamu in
March. March sees a significant spike in rainfall with precipitations amounting up to 32mm (1.26"). Temperatures rise steadily, but the bracing sea air helps maintain the overall comfort.
Weather in March »
Weather in April
April is when
Lamu experiences the peak of the rainy season. A notable increase in precipitation levels to 135mm (5.31") signifies the heart of the wet period. While April maintains
March's warm temperatures, the downpours bring a cool respite.
Weather in April » Weather in May
In
May,
Lamu continues to experience significant rainfall. Though conditions from
April persist, showers are usually interspersed with sunny spells. While the increased humidity may be uncomfortable, it's a trade-off for the lush, green landscapes that the rains bring to the region.
Weather in May »Weather in June
June signifies a shift in
Lamu's weather pattern, with dry days beginning to outnumber rainy ones. A dip in rainfall to 145mm (5.71") and temperatures to 23°C (73.4°F) symbolizes an onset of the cooler phase. A reduction in cloud cover restores the brilliant blue skies.
Weather in June »
Weather in July
The heart of the colder season in
Lamu is
July. Milder temperatures and decreased rainfall characterize the month. Cooler sea breezes often ruffle the calm surface of the Indian Ocean. Dry, sunny days dominate, making July a popular month for travelers seeking a milder African sun.
Weather in July »Weather in August
The height of winter in
Lamu is
August. Though temperatures remain mild by winter standards, a dip to 28°C (82.4°F) makes it one of the cooler months of the year. Clear skies and calm weather provide perfect conditions for enjoying outdoor activities, such as hiking or city tours.
Weather in August »Weather in September
In
September, temperatures in
Lamu begin to climb. Embarking into the warmer half of the year, less rainfall and increasing temperatures become more prominent. Ocean breezes mitigate the heat, maintaining an equilibrium between comfort and warmth.
Weather in September »
Weather in October
October marks the return of heightened temperatures in
Lamu. With little rainfall and more daylight hours, conditions are ideal for outdoor pursuits and beach activities. Though the increase in heat is perceptible, the sea temperatures remain tepid, offering refreshing relief.
Weather in October » Weather in November
November in
Lamu is characterized by rising temperatures leading to the onset of the warmer months. The intensity of the UV index mirrors the increasing temperatures, asserting the prominence of the sun. Occasional rainfall provides intermittent respite from the heat.
Weather in November » Weather in December
December in
Lamu provides the pinnacle of the hot season. The culmination of rising temperatures results in a high of 32°C (89.6°F), adding to the festive spirit. A prolonged sunshine duration allows for extended daylight hours.
Weather in December »