Does It Snow In Kenya?

Hello and welcome! Today, I want to explore a fascinating question that many people often ask: Does it snow in Kenya? When we think of Kenya, we often imagine its breathtaking wildlife, lush landscapes, and vibrant culture. But snow? That might not be the first thing that comes to mind. Join me as we dive into the world of Kenyan weather patterns and discover if snowfall is indeed a possibility in this beautiful country.

Kenya, located on the equator, boasts a diverse climate that ranges from tropical to arid. While snow is not a frequent occurrence in most parts of Kenya, there are areas where snowfall can be experienced. One such place is Mount Kenya, the tallest mountain in the country and the second highest in Africa. It proudly wears a perpetual snow cap, thanks to its towering elevation.

Mount Kenya’s snow cap starts above an elevation of 5,000 feet, creating a majestic sight that contrasts with Kenya’s otherwise temperate climate. The mountain is even home to 11 named glaciers, like the Lewis glacier, although they are unfortunately shrinking due to changing weather patterns and the impact of global warming. These glaciers remind us of the fragile balance between nature and climate that we must strive to protect.

Key Takeaways:

• Snowfall in Kenya is primarily limited to Mount Kenya, the tallest mountain in the country.
• Mount Kenya’s snow cap starts above 5,000 feet and boasts 11 named glaciers.
• The glaciers on Mount Kenya are shrinking due to changing weather patterns and global warming.
• While snow is rare in most parts of Kenya, occasional hailstorms have been reported in other areas of the country.
• The Kenyan climate offers a diverse range of weather patterns and adds to the country’s unique charm.

Mount Kenya: The Snowy Peak

Mount Kenya, the tallest mountain in Kenya and the second highest in Africa, stands as a majestic testament to the country’s natural beauty. One of the most remarkable features of Mount Kenya is its perpetually snow-covered peaks, offering a unique snowy experience in the heart of East Africa. The sight of the snowy summit against the backdrop of lush green valleys is truly awe-inspiring.

The snow on Mount Kenya is a result of its high elevation, reaching 5,199 meters (17,057 feet) at its highest point, Batian. This makes it the only place in Kenya where snow can be found. In addition to the snow, Mount Kenya is also home to 11 named glaciers. The Lewis glacier, the largest of them all, covers a significant portion of the mountain’s slopes.

However, the future of Mount Kenya’s glaciers is uncertain. Changing weather patterns and global warming have taken their toll, causing all of Mount Kenya’s glaciers to shrink rapidly. These natural wonders are retreating at an alarming rate, highlighting the urgent need for climate action to preserve these fragile ecosystems.

Mountaineering Gear

For those who are adventurous enough to conquer Mount Kenya’s peaks, proper mountaineering gear is essential. The climb to the snowy summit requires advanced mountaineering skills and specialized equipment to ensure safety and success.

Here are some of the essential mountaineering gear items needed for a successful ascent to Mount Kenya’s snowy heights:

• Cold-weather gear: Layered clothing, including thermal base layers, insulated jackets, and waterproof outerwear, is crucial for withstanding the extreme cold temperatures at high altitudes.
• Crampons: These traction devices are attached to boots to provide grip on icy surfaces. Crampons with front points are particularly useful for climbing steep snowy slopes.
• Ice axes: Used for stability and self-arresting in case of a fall, ice axes are indispensable tools for mountaineers. They provide extra support while navigating icy terrain.
• Helmet: Protecting your head from falling rocks and ice is essential. A sturdy mountaineering helmet will provide the necessary protection in case of accidents.
• Trekking poles: These aids provide stability and reduce strain on the legs during long hikes. They are especially useful when navigating slippery or snowy terrain.

Properly equipped with the right gear and the necessary skills, mountaineers can embark on a thrilling adventure to reach the snowy summit of Mount Kenya.

Unusual Snow Events in Kenya

While snow is primarily limited to Mount Kenya, there have been a few rare snow events in other parts of Kenya. In September 2008, a freak hailstorm covered the central Kenyan village of Busara in what appeared to be icy white “snow”. The event caused confusion among the villagers, as most of them had never seen snow before. Similarly, in July 2017, there were reports and images of what appeared to be snow in the Kenyan town of Nyahururu. However, the Kenyan Meteorological Agency clarified that it was actually a rare hailstorm, not snow. These rare snow events attract attention due to their unusual nature.

In September 2008, a hailstorm surprised the central Kenyan village of Busara, leaving the villagers bewildered. What they initially believed to be snow turned out to be a rare occurrence of hail. The icy white pellets covering the village created an illusion of a snow-covered landscape, causing confusion among the residents. This unexpected event caught the attention of the local community and sparked conversations about the unusual weather phenomenon in the region.

A similar incident took place in July 2017 in the town of Nyahururu. Images circulated online displaying a white landscape resembling snow. However, the Kenyan Meteorological Agency clarified that it was yet another rare hailstorm, not actual snowfall. These infrequent occurrences of hailstorms mistaken for snow generate curiosity and fascination among Kenyans, as these climatic anomalies challenge their familiar understanding of the region’s weather patterns.

The Climate of Mount Kenya

Mount Kenya experiences a unique climate influenced by its elevation and location. The mountain has two distinct wet seasons and two distinct dry seasons, which align with the wet and dry seasons in the lowlands of Kenya. The southeastern slopes of Mount Kenya receive the most precipitation, influenced by the weather system coming from the Indian Ocean.

Precipitation on Mount Kenya varies, with the majority of it falling as snow above 4,500 meters. The climate on the mountain plays a crucial role in shaping its topography and ecology.

Wet and Dry Seasons on Mount Kenya

The wet seasons on Mount Kenya are characterized by increased rainfall, while the dry seasons are marked by lower precipitation levels. These seasonal variations have a direct impact on the conditions and accessibility of the mountain.

• The first wet season typically occurs from March to May, with heavy rainfall and cloudy conditions. This season is known as the “long rains” and can make hiking and climbing more challenging due to slippery trails and reduced visibility.
• The first dry season follows the long rains, spanning from June to September. During this period, there is a decrease in rainfall, and the weather is generally drier and more stable. It is considered the best time for climbing Mount Kenya, as the trails are less slippery and the visibility is better.
• The second wet season, known as the “short rains,” occurs from October to December. Although it is called the short rains, it can still bring significant rainfall. Hiking during this season requires proper rain gear and caution due to wet and muddy conditions.
• The second dry season extends from January to February, offering relatively dry and stable weather conditions. This period is ideal for climbers looking for clear skies and favorable hiking conditions.

Precipitation on Mount Kenya

Precipitation on Mount Kenya mainly occurs in the form of snow above 4,500 meters. The high elevation and lower temperatures at this altitude contribute to the conversion of rainfall into snow. This snowfall, combined with the mountain’s glaciers, creates a snowy landscape unique to Mount Kenya.

The above table illustrates the average monthly precipitation on Mount Kenya. The wettest months are typically March, April, November, and December, while the drier months are June, July, August, and September.

Daily Weather Patterns on Mount Kenya

Mount Kenya experiences distinct daily weather patterns. Mornings on the mountain are typically clear and cool, with temperatures rising quickly as the day progresses. Clouds begin to form over the western forest zone in the early afternoon, gradually covering the summit region.

During this time, there is a dip in sunlight and an increase in humidity, resulting in a drop in temperatures. By 5pm, the sky clears, and the mountain experiences another peak in temperature. The daily temperature fluctuations are greatest on the lower slopes of Mount Kenya, with temperatures becoming cooler at higher altitudes.

The chart above visually represents the temperature fluctuations throughout the day on different sections of Mount Kenya. As the sun rises, temperatures increase, reaching their peak in the afternoon. They then decrease in the late afternoon due to cloud cover, only to rise again in the evening. This recurring pattern of temperature changes creates a unique climatic experience for visitors on Mount Kenya.

Conclusion

While snow is not common in most parts of Kenya due to its equatorial location, Mount Kenya stands as an exception. With its perpetually snow-covered peaks and glaciers, Mount Kenya offers a unique snowy experience. The snowfall on Mount Kenya is a result of its high elevation and changing climate patterns.

While occasional hailstorms have been reported in other parts of Kenya, snow is primarily limited to Mount Kenya. The climate and weather patterns on the mountain contribute to its snowy conditions and make it a fascinating destination for adventure-seekers and nature enthusiasts. The snowy peaks and glaciers of Mount Kenya provide a breathtaking backdrop for hiking and mountaineering activities.

Despite the shrinking glaciers due to global warming, Mount Kenya continues to showcase its snowy spectacle. So, for those seeking a different kind of African adventure and the chance to witness snow in Kenya, Mount Kenya should be at the top of their bucket list.