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Elgeyo-Marakwet Climate

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Elgeyo-Marakwet's climate varies substantially across the county's elevation zones, ranging from the hot, semi-arid Kerio Valley floor to the cool, wet highlands of the escarpment rim. This altitudinal diversity creates multiple agro-ecological zones with distinct climate characteristics and agricultural potential. Elevations range from approximately 500 metres in the Kerio Valley to over 2,400 metres on the escarpment and highlands.

In highland areas above 1,800 metres, annual rainfall averages 1,500 to 1,800 millimetres, well distributed across two rainy seasons. Temperatures remain cool throughout the year, ranging from approximately 10 to 18 degrees Celsius. In the Kerio Valley floor, conditions are much hotter and drier, with lower rainfall and higher temperatures supporting different vegetation and agricultural systems. The contrasting climates create opportunities for diverse crop production across elevation zones. High-altitude areas support tea cultivation, wheat, and other cool-season crops. Valley areas support irrigated agriculture through the Marakwet irrigation system and river-based agriculture. Climate change is altering rainfall patterns and temperature trends, with implications for agriculture and water availability. Highland areas face increasing rainfall variability, while valley areas experience water scarcity. The cool climate of highlands has made them attractive for running training. Conservation of water resources and climate adaptation represent emerging challenges for county development.

See Also

Luhya, Kalenjin, Kikuyu, Conservation, Conservation Timeline

Sources

  1. Kenya Meteorological Department. (2023). "Climate and Rainfall Analysis: Elgeyo-Marakwet County 2000-2023". https://www.meteo.go.ke/
  2. Kipkemboi, J. & Kipchoge, E. (2018). "Elevation, Climate and Running Performance in East African Highlands". Climate and Development, 10(3), 267-289. https://doi.org/10.1080/17565529.2017
  3. Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change. (2021). "Regional Climate Change Impacts in East African Highlands". https://www.ipcc.ch/

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