Kericho Weather Today

Introduction

Located in the Southwestern part of Kenya, Kericho is renowned for its splendid green landscapes, vast tea plantations, and unique weather patterns. The town is situated on the edge of the Mau Forest and is the headquarters of Kericho County. This article provides an in-depth analysis of Kericho's climate, its weather patterns throughout the year, and the factors that influence these patterns.

Geographical Position

Kericho lies at an altitude of approximately 2,000 meters above sea level. This highland location significantly influences its climate and weather, giving it a relatively cool temperature year-round. Its geographical coordinates are 0.3673° S, 35.2836° E, positioning it near the equator but in the Southern Hemisphere.

Climate Overview

The climate in Kericho is classified as tropical rainforest under the Köppen-Geiger climate classification. The town experiences significant rainfall throughout the year, even during its 'driest' months. The average annual temperature stands around 18.4 °C, while the average yearly rainfall is approximately 1,519 mm.

Temperature

In Kericho, the temperatures are relatively constant throughout the year. The difference between the warmest and coldest months is only about 2.5 °C. The warmest month is February, with an average temperature of about 19.5 °C, while the coolest month is July, with an average temperature of approximately 17 °C.

Rainfall

Kericho experiences two rainy seasons in a year - the long rains occur from March to May, and the short rains from October to December. Of these periods, April is typically the wettest month, receiving an average rainfall of about 200 mm. On the other hand, January and February are the driest months, receiving an average rainfall of around 90 mm.

Weather Patterns by Season

• Long Rainy Season (March to May): This period is characterized by heavy and consistent rainfall. The temperatures are moderately cool, and the humidity levels are high. The landscape becomes even greener, making it a perfect time for tea harvesting.
• Dry Season (June to September): During this period, Kericho experiences less rainfall compared to other months. However, being a tropical rainforest climate, the town still receives significant rainfall. The temperatures are relatively low, making it the coolest period of the year.
• Short Rainy Season (October to December): This period experiences the second phase of rainfall, although not as heavy as the long rainy season. The temperatures slightly increase during this period.
• Hot Season (January and February): Although Kericho does not have a typical hot season, these months are relatively warmer than the rest of the year, with less rainfall.

Factors Influencing Kericho's Climate

The climate and weather patterns in Kericho are influenced by several factors, including its highland location, proximity to the equator, and the presence of the Mau Forest.

Highland Location

Kericho's highland location contributes to its relatively cool temperatures. As we go higher above the sea level, the air gets cooler, hence Kericho's consistently cool weather conditions.

Proximity to the Equator

Being near the equator, Kericho experiences minimal variations in temperature throughout the year. This is because the sun's rays hit the equator at almost a 90-degree angle, resulting in nearly constant daylight hours and temperatures all year round.

The Mau Forest

The presence of the Mau Forest plays a significant role in Kericho's weather patterns. Forests act as natural rainmakers as they add moisture to the atmosphere through a process called transpiration. This moisture contributes to the significant rainfall Kericho receives throughout the year.

Conclusion

In summary, Kericho's climate can be described as a tropical rainforest, characterized by significant rainfall throughout the year and relatively constant, cool temperatures. The town's unique climate, influenced by its geographical location and natural features, makes it a significant tea-growing region in Kenya. Understanding Kericho's climate and weather patterns is crucial for various activities, including agriculture, tourism, and environmental conservation.