Experts have explained why Nairobi is experiencing unusually cold weather this August, attributing the chilly conditions to increased cloud cover caused by a Madden-Julian Oscillation (MJO) wave over Equatorial Africa and the Indian Ocean. Residents are expected to endure several more cold days.
Weather analyst Maithya wa Vilivū said the MJO has strengthened cold conditions across Kenya’s highlands, including Nairobi, areas east and west of the Rift Valley, and parts of the South Eastern region through persistent cloud cover.
The Madden-Julian Oscillation is a tropical weather system that travels eastward every 30 to 60 days. As it passes over Equatorial Africa and the Indian Ocean, it promotes widespread cloud formation, influencing rainfall, winds and regional temperatures.
The thick cloud cover blocks much of the sun’s heat during the day. Combined with cool south-easterly winds, it keeps daytime temperatures low and allows cold air to remain trapped, making Nairobi and surrounding highland regions feel significantly colder.
According to the weather expert, Monday and Tuesday are expected to be the coldest days of the week because dense clouds will reduce sunshine. A brief rise in temperatures is forecast on Wednesday before colder conditions return later.
The Kenya Meteorological Service says the country is slowly moving out of the cold season. However, Nairobi and several other regions will continue experiencing cool, cloudy weather accompanied by morning drizzle, fog and occasional light rainfall.
The August outlook indicates that most parts of Kenya will remain generally dry, although counties including Bungoma, Kakamega, Nakuru, Uasin Gishu, Kericho, Nyandarua, Nyeri and Murang’a are likely to receive some rainfall during the week.
Nairobi and neighbouring Central Kenya counties are expected to continue experiencing cloudy skies, intermittent light rain and chilly mornings. Night temperatures in several highland areas could fall below 10 degrees Celsius, while Nairobi will remain relatively cool.
Kenya Met has also warned of strong south-easterly winds affecting parts of northern, coastal and eastern Kenya. The winds could disrupt transport, damage light structures and further intensify cold conditions in some areas across the country.