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Trends in Climate Variability in Trans-Nzoia County, Kenya: A 34-Year Analysis (1990-2023)
Subject area: Arts, Social Sciences and Humanities · Area of research: Religion
Abstract
This study analyzed climate variability trends in Trans-Nzoia County, Kenya, from 1990 to 2023, focusing on temperature and precipitation patterns. Using data from the Kenya Meteorological Department, Digital Data Portal, and CHIRPS, the research employed descriptive analysis, GIS visualization, and statistical trend analysis. Results revealed significant climate variability, with annual precipitation showing a moderate positive trend (y = 18.418x - 34912, R? = 0.4048), indicating an average increase of 18mm per year. Seasonal analysis showed MAM (March-April-May) as the wettest season (40mm average), while DJF (December-January-February) was the driest (13mm average). Temperature data indicated increasing variability, with the highest minimum temperature recorded in April 2019 (11.692?C) and the lowest in August 1991 (7.068?C). The study identified 2020 as an exceptional year with precipitation exceeding 3000mm, suggesting extreme weather events. Community perceptions were mixed, with 49.7% noting climate improvements while 35.3% observed deterioration. These findings underscore the need for robust climate adaptation strategies in this agricultural region, particularly given the increasing unpredictability of rainfall patterns and temperature fluctuations that directly impact food security and livelihoods.
Keywords
Climate Variability, Trans-Nzoia County, Precipitation Trends, Temperature Patterns
References
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How to cite this paper
@article{1709554,
author = {Muse Rehenalda, Dr. Margaret Matisi, Dr. Nelly Masayi},
title = {Trends in Climate Variability in Trans-Nzoia County, Kenya: A 34-Year Analysis (1990-2023)},
journal = {Iconic Research And Engineering Journals},
year = {2025},
volume = {9},
number = {1},
pages = {232-236},
issn = {2456-8880},
url = {https://www.irejournals.com/formatedpaper/1709554.pdf},
abstract = {This study analyzed climate variability trends in Trans-Nzoia County, Kenya, from 1990 to 2023, focusing on temperature and precipitation patterns. Using data from the Kenya Meteorological Department, Digital Data Portal, and CHIRPS, the research employed descriptive analysis, GIS visualization, and statistical trend analysis. Results revealed significant climate variability, with annual precipitation showing a moderate positive trend (y = 18.418x - 34912, R? = 0.4048), indicating an average increase of 18mm per year. Seasonal analysis showed MAM (March-April-May) as the wettest season (40mm average), while DJF (December-January-February) was the driest (13mm average). Temperature data indicated increasing variability, with the highest minimum temperature recorded in April 2019 (11.692?C) and the lowest in August 1991 (7.068?C). The study identified 2020 as an exceptional year with precipitation exceeding 3000mm, suggesting extreme weather events. Community perceptions were mixed, with 49.7% noting climate improvements while 35.3% observed deterioration. These findings underscore the need for robust climate adaptation strategies in this agricultural region, particularly given the increasing unpredictability of rainfall patterns and temperature fluctuations that directly impact food security and livelihoods.},
keywords = {Climate Variability, Trans-Nzoia County, Precipitation Trends, Temperature Patterns},
month = {July},
}