Kenya Met: Factors Behind Cold and Cloudy July

The Kenya Meteorological Department (KMD) has attributed the cold and cloudy July weather conditions to terrestrial and atmospheric factors.

In a statement on Monday, July 28, the Met Department noted that stratified clouds cover the central highlands, Nairobi, parts of the Rift Valley, and southeastern Kenya in July, limiting sunshine and surface heating.

“Widespread stratified clouds dominate skies over the central highlands, Nairobi, parts of the Rift Valley and southeastern Kenya, limiting sunshine and surface heating,” read the statement in part.

The weatherman pointed out that high-pressure systems influence atmospheric stability, supporting the formation of cloud blankets that trap cold air and suppress warming.

The Met Department also revealed that altitude plays a significant role in the cold weather conditions in July.

“Areas like Nairobi and much of the central highlands are over 1,500m above sea level, making them naturally cooler,” KMD stated.

Further, the weatherman said cool, dry continental air masses from the south affect Kenya in July, enhancing the chill conditions.

This comes days after the Met Department predicted that light rainfall and cold conditions will continue across the country.

In a weather forecast on Monday, July 21, the weatherman said light rains will be experienced in the Central highlands and Western Kenya.

The Met Department also predicted cold and cloudy weather in the South Eastern lowlands and the Rift Valley region.

“Light rainfall expected in parts of Central Highlands and Western Kenya. Cold and cloudy in South Eastern lowlands and Rift Valley,” the weather forecast read in part.

The Met Department also predicted high temperatures exceeding 30°C in North Eastern and North Western parts of Kenya and low temperatures of below 10°C in the Central highlands and areas near Mt. Kilimanjaro.