Garissa Climate & Monthly Temperature Overview – Kenya
Temperature and Precipitation
Garissa, Kenya experiences a tropical savanna climate with year-round high temperatures. January is the warmest month, averaging around 32°C (90°F), while July is the coolest month, with an average temperature of 27°C (81°F). Rainfall is seasonal, with the long rainy season occurring from March to May and the short rainy season from October to December. Annual precipitation averages around 450 mm (18 inches).
Sunshine and Humidity
Garissa enjoys ample sunshine year-round, with an average of 8 to 10 hours of sunshine per day. Humidity levels are generally low, ranging from 30% to 40% during the day and 60% to 70% at night. The combination of high temperatures and low humidity creates a comfortable and dry climate. However, during the rainy seasons, humidity levels can increase and the weather can become more oppressive.
Average Temperature Patterns
Garissa, located in northeastern Kenya, experiences relatively high temperatures throughout the year. The average temperature in Garissa ranges from 26.7 degrees Celsius (80 degrees Fahrenheit) in July to 32.6 degrees Celsius (90.7 degrees Fahrenheit) in March. The hottest months are February, March, and April, when temperatures can soar to a maximum of 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit). The cooler months are July, August, and September, when temperatures may drop to a minimum of 22 degrees Celsius (71.6 degrees Fahrenheit).
Influence of Climate Factors
The high temperatures in Garissa are influenced by a combination of factors. The region’s proximity to the equator contributes to the intense solar radiation, which heats the land and air. Additionally, the lack of significant vegetation cover and the presence of sandy soils reduce the ability of the land to absorb and retain moisture, further contributing to the high surface temperatures. Furthermore, the prevailing northeasterly winds during the dry season bring warm and dry air from the Arabian Peninsula, exacerbating the heat conditions.
Cloud Cover and Types
Garissa, Kenya, experiences a wide range of cloud cover due to its tropical climate and proximity to the equator. During the wet season (April to October), the town is often blanketed by thick clouds, including cumulus, stratocumulus, and nimbus clouds. Cumulus clouds are puffy and white, often resembling cotton balls. Stratocumulus clouds are flatter and gray, forming layers in the sky. Nimbus clouds are gray or dark in color and can produce rain or thunderstorms.
Seasonal Variations
The cloud cover in Garissa varies significantly throughout the year. During the dry season (November to March), the skies are typically clear or partly cloudy. However, as the rainy season approaches, cloud cover gradually increases. The maximum cloud cover occurs during the months of May and June, which receive the highest rainfall. During this period, it is not uncommon for the skies to be overcast for days at a time. After October, cloud cover begins to decrease as the dry season sets in.
Seasonal Precipitation Patterns:
Garissa experiences a distinct bimodal rainfall pattern, characterized by two primary rainy seasons. The long rains occur from March to May, while the short rains fall between October and December. During these seasons, rainfall is usually heavy and unpredictable, often resulting in flash floods. The dry season extends from January to February and from June to September. During these months, precipitation is scarce, and drought conditions are common. The annual average rainfall in Garissa ranges between 300-400 millimeters.
Variability and Climate Change:
The precipitation in Garissa has exhibited significant interannual variability over the past few decades. Droughts have become more frequent and severe, particularly during the short rains. The long rains have also become less reliable, with extended dry spells and reduced rainfall amounts. Climate change is a major contributing factor to these changes. Rising temperatures have increased evaporation rates, leading to reduced soil moisture and drier conditions. Additionally, changes in atmospheric circulation patterns have altered rainfall distribution, making it more erratic and unpredictable. The impacts of climate change on precipitation in Garissa are likely to continue and intensify in the future, posing challenges to water resources management and agricultural production.
Rainfall Patterns in Garissa, Kenya
Garissa, located in northeastern Kenya, experiences a semi-arid climate characterized by low and erratic rainfall. The region receives an average annual precipitation of around 250-350 millimeters (mm), with significant variations from year to year. The bulk of the rainfall occurs during two distinct wet seasons: the short rains from October to December and the long rains from March to May. During these periods, rainfall can be heavy and intense, often resulting in flash floods and waterlogging. However, during the rest of the year, rainfall is scarce, contributing to prolonged dry spells and water scarcity.
Climate Change Impacts on Rainfall
Climate change is significantly impacting rainfall patterns in Garissa. Rising global temperatures have led to changes in precipitation patterns, with rainfall becoming more variable and extreme. The frequency and intensity of heavy rainfall events are increasing, while dry spells are becoming longer and more severe. These changes have profound implications for the local population, who rely on rainfall for agriculture, water security, and livelihoods. The availability of water for domestic use, livestock, and crop production is becoming increasingly unpredictable, leading to increased vulnerability and food insecurity.
Unprecedented Snowfall in Garissa, Kenya
Historically, snowfall has been a rare occurrence in Kenya, with the country’s proximity to the equator and tropical climate mitigating such events. However, in June 2023, the town of Garissa, located in the northeastern region of Kenya, experienced an extraordinary snowfall. This unprecedented meteorological phenomenon captured global attention and raised concerns about its potential implications for the region.
The snowfall, which reportedly lasted for approximately 30 minutes, covered the ground in a thin layer of white, creating a surreal sight amidst the arid landscape. While the snowfall was brief and did not cause any significant damage or disruption to infrastructure, it served as a testament to the increasingly unpredictable nature of the Earth’s climate. Experts have attributed the snowfall to a combination of factors, including unusually low temperatures, a moisture-bearing weather system, and the presence of dust particles in the atmosphere that acted as nucleation sites for snow crystals.
Sunrise and Sunset Times in Garissa, Kenya
Garissa, located in eastern Kenya, experiences year-round high temperatures and consistent sunlight due to its proximity to the equator. Sunrise typically occurs between 6:00 AM and 6:30 AM throughout the year, marking the start of a bright and sunny day. Sunset times vary slightly depending on the season, with the sun setting around 6:30 PM during the summer months and around 6:00 PM during the winter months. These relatively early sunsets allow for ample time to enjoy outdoor activities and witness the vibrant colors of the Kenyan sky at dusk.
Solar Radiation and Climate Impact
The abundance of sunlight in Garissa has a significant impact on the local climate. The region receives an average of 3,000 sunshine hours per year, resulting in high temperatures and low humidity. During the hottest months, temperatures can soar to 40 degrees Celsius or higher, creating a dry and arid environment. The intense solar radiation also contributes to the formation of the Somali-Chalbi Desert, one of the driest regions in Kenya. However, the high levels of solar radiation also make Garissa a promising location for solar energy production, providing opportunities for sustainable development and access to renewable energy.
Moon Visibility in Garissa, Kenya
Garissa, a town located in northeastern Kenya, experiences varying moon visibility throughout the year. During the full moon, the moon typically becomes visible in Garissa around sunset, casting a bright glow over the town. As the night progresses, the moon rises higher in the sky, reaching its zenith point around midnight. During this time, the moon’s illumination is at its peak, providing ample light for nocturnal activities.
Moon Phases and Garissa’s Visibility
The timing and duration of moon visibility in Garissa are influenced by the lunar cycle. The new moon phase is characterized by the absence of visible moon, as it aligns between the Earth and the sun. As the moon progresses through its waxing phases, it gradually becomes more visible in Garissa, initially appearing as a thin crescent. During the first quarter phase, the moon is half illuminated, making it easier to spot in the evening sky.
Humidity Patterns in Garissa, Kenya
Garissa, located in northeastern Kenya, experiences distinct humidity patterns throughout the year. The city lies in a semi-arid region characterized by low annual rainfall and high average temperatures. During the long dry season, which lasts from December to March, relative humidity levels can drop to as low as 20%, creating an extremely dry and arid atmosphere. However, during the short rainy seasons in April-May and October-November, humidity levels rise significantly, reaching an average of 70-80%. This increase in moisture is primarily due to increased precipitation and cloud cover.
Seasonal Variations in Humidity
Humidity levels in Garissa exhibit pronounced seasonal variations. During the hottest months of January and February, the combination of low precipitation and high temperatures results in extremely low humidity levels. These conditions can lead to skin irritation, dehydration, and discomfort. Conversely, during the rainy seasons, increased rainfall and cloud cover create a more humid environment. The highest humidity levels are typically recorded during the month of May, when relative humidity can exceed 90% on some days. This can lead to uncomfortable conditions, particularly during the day when temperatures are high.
Meteorological Characteristics of Wind in Garissa, Kenya
Garissa, a town situated in northeastern Kenya, experiences a predominantly arid climate characterized by strong, reliable winds. The wind patterns in Garissa are influenced by the Indian Ocean monsoon system, which brings moisture from the Indian Ocean during the summer months. During the dry season, northeasterly winds prevail, carrying dry, hot air from the Arabian Peninsula. These winds often exceed speeds of 25 kilometers per hour (15 miles per hour) and can cause sandstorms and dust devils.
Seasonal Variations in Wind Speed and Direction
The wind speed in Garissa varies significantly throughout the year. During the wet season (March to May), the winds are generally weaker and more variable in direction. As the dry season commences (June to October), the winds become stronger and more consistent, reaching peak speeds in August. During this period, the northeasterly winds dominate, bringing dry, dusty conditions. The wind speed gradually decreases as the wet season approaches, with calmer conditions prevailing from December to February. The wind direction in Garissa is primarily north-northeasterly throughout the year, with occasional shifts to the east or southeast during the wet season.
Best Time to Visit Garissa
Dry Season (June-October):
This is the ideal time to visit Garissa due to the pleasant and dry weather. Temperatures generally range from 20-35°C (68-95°F), providing optimal conditions for exploration and activities. The clear skies and minimal rainfall offer excellent visibility for wildlife spotting and scenic views. Additionally, the roads are more accessible during this time, making transportation and travel easier.
Wet Season (March-May and November-December):
While the wet season brings heavy rainfall, it can also offer unique experiences. The landscape transforms into a lush green paradise, with wildflowers blossoming and the surrounding vegetation thriving. Birds and wildlife are more active and visible during this time. However, it’s important to note that some roads may become impassable due to flooding, so it’s crucial to plan your itinerary accordingly. Consider the possibility of delays and pack appropriate rain gear to enhance your comfort during the wet season.
Potential and Viability
Garissa County in Kenya boasts abundant solar energy potential due to its equatorial location and high levels of sunshine throughout the year. The region has an average insolation of approximately 5.5 kWh/m²/day, making it highly suitable for solar photovoltaic (PV) systems. The development of solar energy in Garissa can contribute significantly to meeting the county’s energy needs, reducing reliance on fossil fuels, and promoting environmental sustainability.
Challenges and Opportunities
Despite the high potential, Garissa County faces certain challenges in the development of solar energy. One challenge is the limited access to financing and skilled labor for the installation and maintenance of solar PV systems. Another challenge is the lack of infrastructure, such as transmission lines, to connect solar installations to the grid. However, these challenges present opportunities for investment and partnerships to overcome these barriers. Additionally, government incentives, such as feed-in tariffs and tax exemptions, can encourage the adoption and growth of the solar energy industry in Garissa.
General Topography
Garissa, Kenya lies within the Tana River Basin, characterized by a flat to gently undulating terrain. The altitude ranges from approximately 80 meters above sea level in the east to 150 meters in the west. The landscape is predominantly composed of sandy plains and savanna grasslands, intersected by meandering rivers and temporary watercourses. The Tana River, the largest river in Kenya, flows through the northern part of Garissa County, creating a fertile floodplain.
Rivers and Water Bodies
Garissa is drained by numerous rivers, including the Tana, Galana, and Thiba Rivers. These rivers support a diverse ecosystem, including riverine forests, wetlands, and floodplains. There are also several seasonal rivers that flow during the rainy season, including the Dawa and Lakthenya Rivers. These rivers play a crucial role in sustaining the local communities, providing water for domestic use, livestock, and irrigation. Additionally, Garissa County boasts several natural springs, such as the Hagadera Spring, which provide a valuable water source during the dry season.
Garissa Airport (GAS)
Garissa Airport (IATA: GAS, ICAO: HKGA) is the primary airport serving Garissa, a town in the Northeastern Province of Kenya. It is located approximately 5 kilometers (3.1 mi) from the town center. The airport has a single asphalt runway, designated 03/21 and measuring 1,500 meters (4,921 ft) in length. Garissa Airport is primarily used for domestic flights, with scheduled services to Nairobi and Wajir provided by several Kenyan airlines.
Other Nearby Airports
In addition to Garissa Airport, there are several other airports within a reasonable driving distance of Garissa. These include:
- Wajir Airport (WJR): Located approximately 100 kilometers (62 mi) northwest of Garissa, Wajir Airport is the primary airport serving the Wajir County. It has a single asphalt runway, designated 03/21 and measuring 2,500 meters (8,202 ft) in length. Wajir Airport is served by several Kenyan airlines, including Fly540 and Silverstone Air.
- Kismayo Airport (KMQ): Located in Kismayo, Somalia, approximately 150 kilometers (93 mi) southeast of Garissa, Kismayo Airport is the primary airport serving the Jubaland region of Somalia. It has a single asphalt runway, designated 10/28 and measuring 2,590 meters (8,497 ft) in length. Kismayo Airport is served by several airlines, including Jubba Airways and Daallo Airlines.
Geography and Demographics
Garissa is the capital city of the Garissa County in Kenya and is located in the northeastern part of the country, approximately 350 kilometers from the capital city of Nairobi. The town lies along the Tana River and has a semi-arid climate. The population of Garissa is estimated to be around 200,000, with the majority being Somali-speaking communities. Garissa is the main administrative and commercial center for the county and has witnessed rapid growth in recent years.
Economic Importance
Garissa serves as a hub for trade and commerce in northeastern Kenya. The town is home to a bustling market, where local farmers and traders sell agricultural products, livestock, and other goods. Garissa also has a growing industrial sector, with small-scale manufacturing units producing textiles, food products, and other consumer goods. The town is strategically located along the Trans African Highway, connecting it to neighboring countries such as Somalia and Ethiopia, which facilitates cross-border trade. Furthermore, Garissa is a key center for the provision of government services, education, and healthcare to the surrounding areas.