Experts Explain Why Nairobi Is Experiencing Hotter Days Despite Expected El Niño Rains

Kenyans, particularly in Nairobi, have been complaining about unusually high temperatures being experienced in the city despite expectations of El Niño rains during the October-December rainy season.

Kenyans have raised concerns over unusually hot days in Nairobi and other parts of the country, with temperatures remaining high even as the October-November-December rainy season gets underway.

The heat has left many wondering why the country is experiencing prolonged sunshine when El Niño was expected to bring wetter conditions across much of Kenya, but experts say increased seasonal rainfall does not guarantee continuous rain or cooler temperatures.

Weather expert Maithya wa Vilivū says seasonal models indicate Nairobi could remain warmer than usual through the final quarter of 2026 and into early 2027, with temperatures projected to be between 0.5°C and 1.5°C above normal.

Maithya's assessment puts the median temperature increase at about 1.1°C, while his seven-day outlook indicated daytime highs of 28°C to 30°C, with some parts of Nairobi potentially exceeding 30°C.

Source: Kenyans.co.ke