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Kenya’s Unusually Hot Weather: A Closer Look at the Causes
Understanding the Record-High Temperatures in Kenya
In early 2024, Kenya experienced a significant rise in temperatures, particularly in Nairobi. The World Meteorological Organization highlighted this occurrence as a global phenomenon, with record high temperatures being recorded the previous year. January 2024 was marked as the hottest month on record worldwide. Gilbert Ouma, a renowned expert from the University of Nairobi’s Institute for Climate Change and Adaptation, sheds light on some key factors contributing to this unprecedented heatwave.
Typically, Nairobi’s annual average temperatures fall within a comfortable range of 24°C to 25°C on the higher side and 17°C to 18°C on the lower side. However, during the December-January-February period, maximum temperatures tend to rise, ranging from 26°C to 27°C. This year, temperatures soared even higher, reaching between 29°C and 31°C, which is approximately 6°C above the usual Nairobi temperatures. While such a drastic increase can lead to a heatwave if sustained, Nairobi’s hot weather has been intermittent, allowing the human body to adjust gradually.
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The Influence of Winds and Climate Change
The prevailing hot weather in Kenya is influenced by the northward winds that blow over the country from December to February. These winds, originating from continental areas and often passing through deserts, carry intense heat waves that have recently affected East Africa. The specific path these winds take dictates the temperatures experienced in Kenya. When the winds follow a direct route over the landmass, higher temperatures are observed, as seen in the early months of 2024. Conversely, if the winds curve towards the Indian Ocean, temperatures are moderated, leading to cooler weather and occasional rainfall in the region.
Moreover, the impact of climate change cannot be overlooked in exacerbating the situation. Global average temperatures have been steadily rising, with 2023 marking the highest temperatures on record. This upward trend in temperatures amplifies the already heightened seasonal temperatures, such as those experienced during the December-January-February period. Additionally, the late el Niño rains in December and January of 2024, which typically occur in the September-October-November season, temporarily moderated temperatures before giving way to the intense heat observed in February.
Anticipating Climate Changes and Impacts on Health
With Kenya and its neighboring countries grappling with the effects of the hot weather, the region is transitioning towards the March-April-May season, characterized by the return of the equatorial rainfall belt and overhead sun. The anticipated rainfall during this period is expected to alleviate the high temperatures. However, amidst the seasonal variations, the broader context of global climate change poses long-term challenges.
The rising average temperatures across Africa, increasing at a rate of 0.28°C per decade since 1981, indicate a significant shift in climate patterns. This trend not only affects temperature extremes but also triggers changes in weather events, such as storms. The excess energy buildup in the atmosphere, attributed to greenhouse gas effects driving climate change, necessitates dissipation through intense storms, leading to more frequent extreme rainfall events. Conversely, regions may experience prolonged droughts, impacting ecosystems and potentially causing the extinction of certain species.
Health Implications and Adaptation Strategies
As temperatures continue to rise globally, the health implications of prolonged heat exposure become a growing concern. Beyond immediate discomfort, prolonged exposure to high temperatures can result in heat stroke, exacerbate chronic conditions like kidney disease and cardiovascular issues, and trigger respiratory problems such as asthma. Additionally, shifts in temperature ranges may facilitate the spread of diseases like malaria, as seen with mosquitoes thriving within specific temperature thresholds.
In light of these challenges, proactive measures to mitigate the impacts of climate change and extreme weather events are crucial. From enhancing public health strategies to adapting infrastructure to withstand changing climate patterns, concerted efforts at local, national, and global levels are essential to safeguarding communities against the adverse effects of escalating temperatures and unpredictable weather phenomena.
The recent spell of hot weather in Kenya serves as a poignant reminder of the intricate interplay between natural weather patterns, global climate change, and human activities. By understanding the underlying causes and potential consequences of these temperature fluctuations, we can collectively work towards building resilient, sustainable communities that can adapt to the evolving climate landscape.
Links to additional Resources:
1. www.worldweather.org 2. www.climate.gov 3. www.ipcc.ch.Related Wikipedia Articles
Topics: World Meteorological Organization, Climate Change, HeatwaveWorld Meteorological Organization
The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations responsible for promoting international cooperation on atmospheric science, climatology, hydrology and geophysics. The WMO originated from the International Meteorological Organization, a nongovernmental organization founded in 1873 as a forum for exchanging weather data and research. Proposals to...
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Climate change
In common usage, climate change describes global warming—the ongoing increase in global average temperature—and its effects on Earth's climate system. Climate change in a broader sense also includes previous long-term changes to Earth's climate. The current rise in global average temperature is primarily caused by humans burning fossil fuels since...
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Heat wave
A heat wave (or heatwave), sometimes described as extreme heat, is a period of abnormally hot weather.: 2911 Definitions vary but are similar. A heat wave is usually measured relative to the usual climate in the area and to normal temperatures for the season.: 2911 Temperatures that humans from a hotter climate...
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