Weather in Wajir

Introduction

Wajir, a city situated in the North Eastern region of Kenya, is renowned for its semi-arid climate, defined by high temperatures and low rainfall. The city's weather conditions are influenced by its geographical location near the equator and its low altitude. This profile presents a detailed exploration of Wajir's climate and weather patterns throughout the year.

Climate Overview

Wajir experiences a tropical savanna climate with a short rainy season and a long dry season. According to the Köppen Climate Classification, the city's climate is categorized as 'Aw'. The city's semi-arid conditions are characterized by annual high temperatures and low humidity, with an average annual temperature of approximately 28.3°C (82.94°F).

Monthly Weather Breakdown

Rainfall Patterns

Wajir experiences two rainy seasons: the 'long rains' from April to June and the 'short rains' in November. The heaviest rainfall typically occurs in April, with an average of 58mm, while the driest month is June, with an average precipitation of just 1mm.

"The rainy seasons in Wajir are the lifeblood of the region's pastoral economy, replenishing water sources and stimulating the growth of vegetation for livestock. The unpredictable nature of these rains, however, can lead to periods of drought or flooding, significantly impacting local communities and their livelihoods." - Meteorological Expert, Kenya Meteorological Department

Temperature Patterns

The warmest month in Wajir is February, with average high temperatures reaching 35°C (95°F). In contrast, the coolest month is July, with average low temperatures of 22°C (71.6°F). Despite these variations, Wajir maintains relatively stable temperatures throughout the year due to its equatorial location.

Humidity and Wind Patterns

Wajir experiences low relative humidity levels due to its arid environment, typically ranging between 20% to 40%. The city also experiences northeastern monsoon winds, locally referred to as 'Kaskazi', from December to March. These winds, while bringing little to no rain, can significantly lower the apparent temperature and provide relief from the heat.

Conclusion

Overall, Wajir's climate patterns are characterized by high temperatures, low rainfall, and low humidity, with seasonal changes driven by monsoon winds and equatorial sun patterns. Understanding these patterns is crucial not only for local inhabitants and their livelihoods but also for visitors, environmentalists, and climate researchers studying the impacts of climate change on semi-arid regions like Wajir.