Why Nairobi and Most Parts of Kenya Experience Cold Weather in July

The Kenya Meteorological Department (Kenya Met) has explained why Nairobi and many other parts of the country experience cold weather and occasional rainfall in July.

In a thread posted on July 5, Kenya Met stated that the chilly conditions are a normal seasonal weather pattern caused by the interaction between cold air over central and eastern Kenya and warm, moisture-laden air moving in from the western part of the country.

The weatherman said it is not unusual for Kenya to receive rainfall during July, noting that the rains occur when cold air from central and eastern regions, including Nairobi, meets warm, moist air from the west.

“ It is not unusual to experience rain in July in Kenya. This occurs when cold air from central and eastern regions, including Nairobi, interacts with warm moist air from the west,” read part of the thread.

Kenya Met Explains Why July Brings Cold Weather and Rain

According to Kenya Met, as the warm air rises above the colder air, it cools and condenses, resulting in heavy advective rainfall across affected areas.

The department noted that these conditions are expected whenever weather systems from the west push warm, moisture-filled air toward the cooler regions of the country.

Also Read: Dry Spell Ahead: Kenya Met Advises Farmers to Harvest and Store Crops Safely

It further explained that as the country moves into August and early September, the same interaction between cold and warm air masses can trigger hailstorms.

Kenya Met noted that the resulting hail is often mistaken for snow because of its white appearance, although the two are entirely different phenomena.

“As we approach August and early September, this interaction can cause hailstorms, which are often mistaken for snow.  This phenomenon is similar to the formation of a warm front,” read part of the thread.

In addition, Kenya Met explained that the process is similar to the formation of a warm front, where warm, moist air is forced to rise over a colder air mass, creating unstable weather conditions.

July Expected to Be Warmer Than Usual Despite Cold Conditions

Earlier, Kenya Met revealed that its July temperature outlook indicates that most parts of the country are likely to record warmer-than-average conditions compared to previous years.

However, the department noted that July will remain Kenya’s coldest month, with most highland areas expected to experience cold mornings, cloudy conditions and occasional fog.

Also Read: Kenya Met Reveals July Weather Forecast as Coldest Month Brings Rain, Strong Winds

It warned that the combination of low temperatures and persistent cloud cover could make conditions particularly uncomfortable during the early morning and at night, urging residents in high-altitude areas to keep warm.

Strong winds have also been forecast by the Kenya Met Department in several parts of the country, including the Coast, southern region, northern part, and western part of Kenya.

The strong winds could affect maritime transport, road transport, and other outdoor activities.

Such conditions can also cause damage to some buildings, especially those on rooftops and power cables, in regions where there are strong winds.

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Acting Kenya Meteorological Department Director Edward Muriuki speaking at a past function. PHOTO/KMD