Kenya has a diverse climate that varies greatly due to its topography and geographical location. The country can be categorized into several major climatic regions, each characterized by distinct weather patterns:
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Coastal Climate: The coastal region, comprising cities like Mombasa and Malindi, experiences a hot and humid climate influenced by the Indian Ocean. It has two main seasons: a long rainy season (from April to June) and a shorter rainy season (from October to December).
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Savanna Climate: Much of Kenya, including regions like the Maasai Mara and parts of central Kenya, features a savanna climate. This region experiences seasonal rainfall with a long dry season and a short rainy season. Temperatures can be quite high during the day and cooler at night.
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Highland Climate: The central highland region, which includes cities like Nairobi and Kisumu, has a temperate climate with moderate temperatures and relatively consistent rainfall throughout the year. The altitude influences cooler temperatures compared to the lowland areas.
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Arid and Semi-Arid Climate: Northern Kenya and parts of Eastern Kenya, such as around Turkana and Garissa, are characterized by an arid climate with low annual rainfall. These regions experience high temperatures and prolonged dry seasons, making agriculture challenging.
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Western Climate: Areas like Kakamega experience a more humid, tropical climate due to their proximity to Lake Victoria. This region has significant rainfall, particularly from March to May, and supports lush vegetation and agriculture.
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Mountain Climate: The mountain regions, such as Mount Kenya, have a unique climate that varies with altitude. The lower slopes may experience a moist climate, while higher elevations have cooler temperatures and are subject to snowfall.
Understanding these climatic regions is essential for agriculture, wildlife conservation, and urban planning in Kenya, as they significantly influence the livelihoods of local populations.
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