Watamu Monthly Rainfall & Precipitation
This page shows both the average monthly rainfall and the number of rainy days in Watamu, Coast Province, Kenya. These averages rely on historical data collected over 30 years, from 1990 to 2020. Now, let's break down all the details for a clearer picture.
Generally, Watamu experiences moderate precipitation patterns, averaging 921 mm (36 in) yearly. However, this average masks significant seasonal variation, including a distinct dry season during certain months that are clearly visible in our monthly breakdown below.
Monthly Precipitation Levels
The average number of days each month with precipitation (> 0.2 mm (0.01 in))
The climate in Watamu shows significant variation throughout the year. Expect 202 mm (8 in) of precipitation during the wettest month May, distributed over 21 rainy days.
In contrast, February offers drier and sunnier days, with around 14 mm (0.6 in) of rainfall over 3 rainy days.
May, the wettest month, has a maximum daytime temperature of 29°C (84°F). During the driest month February you can expect a temperature of 31°C (88°F). For more detailed insights into the city's temperatures, visit our Watamu Temperature page.
Explore Watamu's Historical Precipitation: 1976-2026
Browse day-by-day precipitation records for Watamu spanning 51 years. Select any month and year to see actual rainfall and snowfall recorded on each day.
Annual Rainfall in Kenya: City Comparison
The map below shows the annual precipitation across Kenya. You can also select the different months in case you are interested in a specific month.
heavy rainfall
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moderate
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Watamu vs World: Rainfall Compared
Watamu's average annual precipitation is 921 mm (36 in). Let's compare this to some popular worldwide tourist destinations:
The climate in San Francisco, USA, is influenced by coastal weather, with 469 mm (18 in) of rainfall mostly during the winter months.
Meanwhile, Buenos Aires, Argentina, enjoys a humid subtropical climate with 1000 mm (39 in) of annual rainfall, mostly in the summer.
Adelaide, Australia, enjoys 511 mm (20 in) of annual precipitation, with dry summers and wet winters.
Singapore, situated near the equator, gets 2581 mm (102 in) of rainfall annually, with no distinct dry season and consistent monthly precipitation.
Precipitation amounts are measured using specific gauges installed at weather stations, collecting both rain and snow and any other type of precipitation. Rainfall is measured directly in millimeters, while that from snow and ice is obtained by melting it. Automated systems often incorporate heaters to make this easier.
Information from these stations is transmitted via Wi-Fi, satellite, GPS, or telephone connections to central monitoring networks. This information is immediately updated and integrated into weather models and forecasts.
Climate change is affecting precipitation patterns worldwide, including Watamu:
- Changing Rainfall Patterns: Global warming causes drastic changes in the patterns of rainfall. Some areas have been experiencing increased frequency and intensity of rainfall, while other areas experience longer dry spells or even droughts.
- Local Impacts: Many regions are experiencing heavier rainfall in the winter months and drier, hotter summers. This affects agriculture, water resources, and ecosystems.
- "Ginger" was the longest-lasting Atlantic tropical storm, which spun around the open ocean for 28 days in 1971.
- The world's largest snowflake was recorded in the Guinness Book of Records, at 38 cm (15 inches) wide and 20 cm (7.9 inches) thick. The snowflake fell at Fort Keogh, Montana, USA, on 28 January 1887.
- The greatest snowfall recorded was on Mt. Rainier, Washington State, USA—over 31.5 meters (103 feet) fell during the winter of 1972.
For more detailed information about Watamu's weather, including sunshine hours, humidity levels, and temperature data, visit our Watamu Climate page.
