Nairobi Climate Guide: Seasons, Averages & Local Feel

Nairobi sits at an elevation of approximately 1,795 meters (5,889 feet), which fundamentally dictates its weather. Unlike the sweltering tropical heat often associated with East Africa, Nairobi enjoys a subtropical highland climate. This altitude keeps the air crisp and the temperatures moderate throughout the year, earning it the nickname "The City of Cool Waters."

The Daily Rhythm

Nairobi’s weather follows a predictable diurnal pattern. Mornings are often brisk and occasionally misty, particularly between June and August. As the sun rises over the equator, the temperature climbs steadily, peaking in the mid-afternoon. Because of the high altitude, the sun feels significantly more intense than the thermometer suggests. Even on the hottest days, high humidity is rare; the heat is typically dry and sharp. Once the sun sets, the temperature drops rapidly. Locals often describe the climate as having "four seasons in one day," as you can transition from a chilly morning to a warm, sun-drenched afternoon and back to a cold night within twelve hours.

Seasonal Trends

Nairobi does not have traditional spring, summer, autumn, or winter. Instead, the year is divided by rainfall patterns governed by the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ).

• The Hot, Dry Season (January – February): This is the peak of summer. Skies are generally clear, and daytime temperatures often reach 27°C–29°C (80°F–84°F). These are the sunniest months, though the occasional afternoon thunderstorm can still occur.
• The Long Rains (March – May): This is the primary wet season. April is historically the wettest month. Rain typically arrives in heavy, spectacular afternoon or evening downpours rather than a constant drizzle. These storms can be intense, accompanied by thunder, but often leave the air smelling of fresh earth (petrichor).
• The Cool, Cloudy Season (June – August): Often referred to as Nairobi’s "winter," this period is characterized by persistent grey overcast skies and a lack of direct sunlight. While it rarely rains heavily, a fine mist (known locally as gathandara) is common. July is usually the coldest month, with daytime highs sometimes struggling to reach 20°C (68°F) and nighttime lows dipping to 11°C (52°F).
• The Short Rains (October – December): Following a warm and dusty September, the "short rains" bring relief. These showers are generally lighter and less predictable than the long rains, often occurring as brief interludes in an otherwise sunny day.

Local Microclimates

Nairobi’s topography creates distinct weather variations across the city. The western highlands (areas like Karen, Dagoretti, and Limuru) are significantly cooler and wetter due to higher elevation and denser vegetation. In contrast, the eastern and southern plains (near Jomo Kenyatta International Airport and the Embakasi area) are lower, flatter, and noticeably hotter and drier. The city center also experiences an "urban heat island" effect, where paved surfaces and dense buildings keep night temperatures a few degrees higher than the leafy suburbs.

Historical Context and Phenomena

Historically, Nairobi’s seasons were so regular that locals used the onset of the long rains to time their agricultural cycles. However, in recent decades, climate change has introduced more variability. The rains now occasionally "fail," leading to extended dry spells, or arrive with such intensity that they cause localized flash flooding.

One specific phenomenon is the August transition. Locals look for the "break" in the clouds toward the end of August; when the persistent grey veil finally lifts to reveal a deep blue sky, it signals the definitive end of the cold season. High-altitude winds are also common during the transition months (February and September), often bringing dust from the northern deserts before the rains wash the air clean.