Weather in Machakos

Machakos, Kenya: An In-depth Overview of Its Climate and Weather

Machakos, Kenya, is a fascinating location with a unique climate and weather pattern that is shaped by its geographical location and altitude. This article aims to provide a thorough understanding of the climate and weather in Machakos throughout the year.

Geographical Location and General Climate

Machakos is located in the eastern part of Kenya. It is situated at an elevation of approximately 1,588 meters above sea level, which significantly impacts its climate. The town experiences a semi-arid climate that is characterized by relatively warm temperatures and moderate to low rainfall throughout the year.

Temperature Overview

The temperature in Machakos, Kenya, varies minimally throughout the year. The average annual temperature is around 20.5°C (68.9°F).

January is the warmest month, with an average high-temperature of 27°C (80.6°F), and July is the coldest month, with an average low-temperature of 14°C (57.2°F).

Rainfall and Humidity

Machakos receives most of its rain during the two rainy seasons - the “long rains” from March to May and the “short rains” from October to December.

• The driest month is July, with an average of 1 mm of rainfall.
• November is the wettest month, with an average of 198 mm of rainfall.

The average annual rainfall is approximately 820 mm. Despite this, the humidity levels are relatively low due to the semi-arid climate, making the weather quite comfortable for residents and visitors.

Weather Variability

The weather in Machakos can be quite variable, especially during the transition periods between the rainy and dry seasons. During these times, it is not uncommon to experience hot, sunny mornings followed by sudden afternoon showers.

Wind and Sunshine

Winds in Machakos are generally light to moderate, with an average annual speed of 9 km/h. The town enjoys a significant amount of sunshine throughout the year, averaging 6-9 hours of sunshine per day.

Climate and Weather: Month-by-Month Breakdown

For a more comprehensive understanding of the weather in Machakos, let's delve into a month-by-month breakdown of the climate.

January - February

These months are amongst the warmest in Machakos, with average high temperatures of 27°C (80.6°F). Rainfall is relatively low, with averages of 56 mm and 49 mm for January and February respectively.

March - May

The “long rains” season starts in March and extends through May. March sees an average rainfall of 92 mm, which increases to 156 mm and 188 mm in April and May, respectively. The temperature during this period ranges from an average high of 26°C (78.8°F) to an average low of 15°C (59°F).

June - August

June through August is the coolest period in Machakos, with the lowest average temperature of 14°C (57.2°F) in July. Rainfall drops significantly during these months, making them the driest part of the year.

September - December

The “short rains” season begins in October and lasts through December. September is relatively dry with an average rainfall of 25 mm. Rainfall then increases to an average of 77 mm in October, peaking at 198 mm in November, before decreasing to 134 mm in December. The average high temperatures for these months range from 25°C (77°F) to 26°C (78.8°F).

Conclusion

Understanding the climate and weather patterns of Machakos, Kenya, is vital for both residents and tourists. The semi-arid climate, characterized by moderate temperatures and two rainy seasons, offers a unique and comfortable environment. Whether you're planning a trip or interested in the climatic conditions of different regions, this comprehensive guide provides a clear picture of what to expect in Machakos throughout the year.

References

All data and statistics used in this article are sourced from reputable climate and weather databases. Information on temperature, rainfall, wind, and sunshine hours are based on long-term historical weather data.