Nairobi, Kenya, experiences a mild and comfortable climate year-round, making it an attractive destination in Africa.
The hottest month in Nairobi is March, with temperatures reaching up to 80°F and dropping to 61°F at night.
July is the coldest month, with daytime highs around 71°F and nighttime lows averaging 55°F.
The city has distinct seasonal variations.
The cool season runs from early June to late August, during which daily high temperatures stay below 73°F.
Rainfall patterns also vary, with Nairobi witnessing more rainy days in December compared to February.
In February, sunshine is more prevalent.
For those planning their travels around Nairobi’s weather, understanding the city’s monthly weather changes can be quite helpful.
For instance, March weather in Nairobi is the warmest, while July commands a chillier ambience, ideal for those who enjoy milder climates.
Average Temperature In Nairobi, Kenya
The climate in Nairobi is temperate year-round. The average temperatures vary throughout the year, with the hottest month being March and the coolest month being July.
Average Temperatures by Month:
| Month | High (°F) | Low (°F) |
|---|---|---|
| January | 79 | 59 |
| February | 79 | 60 |
| March | 80 | 61 |
| April | 77 | 61 |
| May | 73 | 59 |
| June | 71 | 56 |
| July | 71 | 55 |
| August | 72 | 55 |
| September | 75 | 55 |
| October | 75 | 58 |
| November | 75 | 59 |
| December | 76 | 59 |
March experiences the highest average temperature, with daily highs reaching around 80°F and lows around 61°F.
On the other hand, the coldest month in Nairobi is July, with high temperatures averaging 71°F and low temperatures around 55°F.
Throughout the year, temperatures are usually mild and comfortable.
Daytime highs rarely exceed the upper 80s, and nighttime temperatures generally remain above 50°F.
This temperate climate makes Nairobi a pleasant destination for visitors looking for consistent weather.
For more details on temperature trends, the temperatures from June to August are cooler, with June and July being the coolest months.
From September to May, temperatures gradually warm up, providing a more humid environment.
The data above shows the distinct patterns of Nairobi’s climate with minimal fluctuations, making it stable and predictable for residents and visitors alike.
Average Precipitation In Nairobi, Kenya
Nairobi experiences varying rainfall throughout the year. The city has two main rainy seasons and a relatively dry period. Here is an overview of the average precipitation you can expect.
Average Rainfall In Nairobi, Kenya
Nairobi’s average annual rainfall is approximately 39 inches.
The city has two main rainy periods: the long rains, typically from March to May, and the short rains, usually from October to December.
The wettest month is April, with an average of 7 inches of rain.
The driest month is July, receiving only about 1 inch of rainfall.
Table: Monthly Rainfall in Nairobi
| Month | Average Rainfall (inches) |
|---|---|
| January | 1.6 |
| February | 2.0 |
| March | 3.2 |
| April | 7.1 |
| May | 4.5 |
| June | 1.8 |
| July | 1.0 |
| August | 1.3 |
| September | 2.1 |
| October | 3.3 |
| November | 4.2 |
| December | 2.4 |
Nairobi experiences around 95 rainy days per year.
Dry seasons are most prominent in January and February, as well as July and August.
Average Snow In Nairobi, Kenya
Snowfall in Nairobi is exceedingly rare. The city’s equatorial location and moderate elevation mean temperatures seldom drop low enough for snow. Consequently, there are no recorded instances of snow in Nairobi.
For more detailed information on snow and ice, you can explore Snow and Ice – ChaseDay.com.
Residents and visitors can expect mild weather throughout the year without the need to worry about snow or extreme cold.
Average Sun In Nairobi, Kenya
Nairobi experiences varying amounts of sunshine throughout the year. The city enjoys abundant daylight, with notable differences in sunshine hours between seasons.
Average Daily Shortwave Solar Energy In Nairobi, Kenya
Nairobi receives significant solar energy daily. The average daily shortwave solar energy varies slightly with the time of year.
| Month | Average Solar Energy (kWh/m²) |
|---|---|
| January | 5.9 |
| February | 6.0 |
| March | 6.1 |
| April | 5.7 |
| May | 5.4 |
| June | 5.2 |
| July | 5.3 |
| August | 5.5 |
| September | 5.8 |
| October | 5.9 |
| November | 5.8 |
| December | 5.9 |
Daylight and Sunshine Hours
Nairobi has an average of 12 hours of daylight throughout the year. In December, daylight peaks at 12.4 hours, while June sees around 11.9 hours.
Sunrise and Sunset
Sunrise times in Nairobi range from around 6:20 AM to 6:30 AM. Sunset generally occurs between 6:25 PM and 6:40 PM.
Twilight and Zenith
Civil twilight lasts for about 30 minutes after sunset, providing additional natural light. The sun reaches its zenith around noon, though this varies slightly with the seasons.
Average Humidity In Nairobi, Kenya
Nairobi experiences varying levels of humidity throughout the year. The mean monthly relative humidity in Nairobi shows significant fluctuation.
Monthly relative humidity:
| Month | Relative Humidity (%) |
|---|---|
| January | 63.0 |
| February | 62.0 |
| March | 68.0 |
| April | 74.0 |
| May | 78.0 |
| June | 77.0 |
| July | 76.0 |
| August | 75.0 |
| September | 70.0 |
| October | 68.0 |
| November | 70.0 |
| December | 71.0 |
In Nairobi, the most humid month is May, with an average relative humidity of 78%. February is the least humid month, averaging 62%.
Dew point is another measure to understand how comfortable the moisture level feels. Nairobi’s dew points are generally low, contributing to a comfortable climate most of the year.
Perceived humidity can vary depending on temperature.
For instance, higher temperatures in March might feel more humid even if relative humidity isn’t peaking.
Throughout the year, the annual average relative humidity in Nairobi is about 72%.
This means residents and visitors can expect moderate moisture levels, which can affect comfort and health.
Relative Humidity Importance:
- Higher Relative Humidity: May makes the air feel warmer.
- Lower Relative Humidity: February tends to make the air feel cooler.
Average Wind In Nairobi, Kenya
Nairobi’s winds vary throughout the year. Wind speeds are measured in miles per hour (mph).
In general, wind speed in Nairobi is around 6-10 mph.
During the windier months, this can rise to 12 mph or more.
Monthly Average Wind Speeds
| Month | Average Wind Speed (mph) |
|---|---|
| January | 7 |
| February | 8 |
| March | 7 |
| April | 6 |
| May | 6 |
| June | 8 |
| July | 9 |
| August | 10 |
| September | 8 |
| October | 7 |
| November | 6 |
| December | 7 |
July is the windiest month. The average speed in this month reaches up to 10 mph.
On windy days, it is common to experience small to moderate gusts.
The wind direction is primarily from the southeast and northeast throughout different seasons.
Average Air Quality In Nairobi, Kenya
Nairobi’s air quality varies throughout the year. In 2020, the average PM2.5 concentration was 14.7 µg/m³, which is about 1.5 times the recommended annual threshold by the World Health Organization (WHO).
The air quality fluctuates depending on multiple factors including cloud cover, wind speed, and weather patterns.
Monthly Air Quality:
| Month | PM2.5 (µg/m³) |
|---|---|
| January | 18.2 |
| February | 14.0 |
| March | 13.5 |
| April | 13.0 |
| May | 14.5 |
| June | 19.0 |
| July | 22.6 |
| August | 20.1 |
| September | 17.3 |
| October | 13.9 |
| November | 11.8 |
| December | 12.4 |
July is the most polluted month with an average PM2.5 concentration of 22.6 µg/m³.
The city often experiences moderate air quality according to the US AQI index. For example, in early 2021, Nairobi recorded an AQI reading of 73.
Clear Skies and Cloud Cover:
Clear skies can sometimes lead to higher pollution levels as pollutants do not get dispersed by wind or clouds.
Pressure and Wind Speed:
Nairobi’s average wind speed is about 6 mph. Winds help in dispersing pollutants, improving air quality.
Low pressure areas may see more stagnant air and higher pollution.
For more information on real-time air quality updates, you can visit IQAir’s Nairobi page or AccuWeather’s air quality page.
Topography Of Nairobi, Kenya
Nairobi, the capital city of Kenya, is situated on a highland plateau, giving it a unique topography. The city’s elevation varies significantly, ranging from a minimum of 4,921 feet to a maximum of 7,313 feet above sea level.
This altitude impacts the climate and environment of the area.
The average elevation of Nairobi is approximately 5,656 feet. This high elevation contributes to the city’s mild temperatures and unique weather patterns.
The terrain is marked by rolling hills and valleys, making the landscape diverse and interesting.
Elevation Details:
| Location | Elevation (feet) |
|---|---|
| Minimum Elevation | 4,921 |
| Average Elevation | 5,656 |
| Maximum Elevation | 7,313 |
Nairobi’s location on the Kenyan plateau places it at a higher altitude than coastal cities like Mombasa. This makes Nairobi cooler and less humid compared to regions closer to the coast.
Dagoretti, a suburb of Nairobi, shares similar elevation characteristics with the city’s central area.
The high plateau extends towards other Kenyan cities such as Eldoret, Nakuru, and Kisumu, although each of these has its unique elevation profile.
Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, located southeast of the city center, sits at a significant elevation, impacting flight operations.
The high altitude of Nairobi is a key factor in its climate, contributing to cooler temperatures and occasional rainfall, making it distinct from the low-lying coastal regions of Kenya.
Extreme Weather Events That Occur In Nairobi, Kenya
Nairobi, Kenya experiences various extreme weather events including heavy rainfall, drought, and high temperatures. These events have become more frequent due to climate change.
Heavy Rainfall
During certain periods, Nairobi experiences heavy rain, leading to floods.
Flood events may occur during the “long rains” season from March to May. For example, in recent years, rainfall in these months has often exceeded 10 inches, causing significant issues.
Drought
Nairobi also faces drought conditions, especially during the “short rains” season from October to December.
When rain is less than 2 inches in these months, water shortages can occur, affecting daily life and agriculture.
Unusually High Temperatures
In early 2024, Nairobi saw unusually high temperatures, with records exceeding 90°F in some areas.
These temperature spikes are linked to larger climate trends and can affect health and infrastructure.
Table of Extreme Events by Month (Examples)
| Month | Rainfall (inches) | Temperature (°F) | Notable Event |
|---|---|---|---|
| March 2024 | 12 | 75 | Heavy Rainfall |
| December 2023 | 1.5 | 85 | Drought |
| January 2024 | 3 | 90 | Extreme Heat |
Best Time Of The Year To Visit Nairobi, Kenya
Visiting Nairobi is ideal during the dry season from June to October when you can enjoy mild temperatures, clear skies, and excellent conditions for wildlife viewing.
Rainy seasons in spring and late fall bring lush scenery but might limit outdoor activities.
What Is Nairobi, Kenya Like In Spring
Spring in Nairobi runs from March to May. This season is marked by the “long rains,” with April being the wettest month, receiving about 7 inches of rainfall.
Temperatures during spring range from 55°F to 77°F.
The periodic showers make the scenery lush and green, enhancing the beauty of city parks and surrounding landscapes.
Though it’s a wet season, it’s less crowded with tourists, which can be an advantage.
Activities like visiting the Nairobi National Park are still possible. Just prepare for some rain.
It’s also a favorable time for bird watching, as many migratory birds arrive.
What Is Nairobi, Kenya Like In Summer
Summer in Nairobi spans from June to August. This period is considered the best time to visit, especially for wildlife enthusiasts.
It’s a dry season, with temperatures averaging between 50°F and 75°F.
Rainfall is minimal, making it an excellent time for outdoor activities and safaris.
The cooler temperatures are comfortable for walking tours and exploring outdoor markets.
Wildlife is easier to spot as animals gather around water sources.
For those interested in cultural experiences, local festivals and events often take place in the summer, making it a vibrant time for tourism.
What Is Nairobi, Kenya Like In Fall
Fall in Nairobi runs from September to November. This season starts with dry weather in September, ideal for game viewing.
Temperatures range from 53°F to 77°F.
October and November bring the “short rains,” with November receiving up to 4 inches of rain.
This period offers a mix of dry and wet conditions, with lush landscapes developing toward the end of November.
The tourism score remains high, as early fall provides clear skies and comfortable weather.
It’s an excellent time for warm-weather activities, including hiking and visiting the beaches along the coast.
What Is Nairobi, Kenya Like In Winter
Winter in Nairobi covers December to February. These months are part of the dry season, with temperatures ranging from 55°F to 77°F.
Rainfall is minimal, making it another peak period for travel.
December and January are particularly popular due to holiday tourism. The weather is warm and dry, ideal for safaris and other outdoor adventures. This time of year also offers great visibility, making it perfect for photography and exploring the city’s many attractions.
Activities like visiting the local markets and cultural sites are highly recommended during the cool season.