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Overview

Kenya lies directly on the equator — the region of the Earth that receives the most direct sunlight year-round. This intense solar energy makes the equatorial belt the “weather engine” of the planet, driving global atmospheric circulation.

Unlike temperate regions where high- and low-pressure systems compete; the equatorial zone experiences a unique pattern of consistent trade winds and periodic calm zones. These dynamics are fundamental to understanding the weather patterns that influence paragliding conditions in Kenya.

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The Equinox

Twice each year, the Earth’s axis is positioned so that it is neither tilted toward nor away from the sun. These events are known as equinoxes, occurring around March 20–21 and September 22–23.

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During the equinox, day and night are nearly equal in length across the globe — the word equinox comes from the Latin aequus (equal) and nox (night).

For equatorial regions like Kenya, the equinoxes mark important seasonal transitions, influencing shifts in wind direction and the onset of calm or “doldrum” periods between the dominant trade wind seasons.

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The Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ)

At the heart of equatorial weather lies the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) — a belt of low pressure encircling the Earth near the equator. Here, the northeast and southeast trade winds converge, forcing warm, moist air upward. This process produces towering clouds, frequent thunderstorms, and heavy rainfall.

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The position of the ITCZ shifts slightly north and south with the movement of the sun throughout the year. This seasonal migration brings alternating wet and dry periods to tropical regions.

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Sailors often call the ITCZ “the doldrums” or “the calms”, referring to its light, variable winds and unpredictable weather — conditions that can challenge both sailors and paraglider pilots alike.

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​Seasonal Wind Systems in Kenya

​​Because Kenya straddles the equator, it experiences three distinct wind seasons each year as a result of the shifting ITCZ and equinox transitions:

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• Northeasterly Trade Wind (Kaskazi) – December to March

  • Consistent, strong, and relatively dry.

  • Brings hot, high-pressure conditions.

  • Creates high cloud bases and reliable flying weather, ideal for intermediate and advanced paragliding pilots.

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• Equatorial Calms (Matelai) – May and November

  • Light or no wind conditions following the equinoxes.

  • Characterized by humidity, variable air movement, and frequent local convection.

  • Often unsuitable for long cross-country flights due to instability and limited lift.

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• Southeasterly Trade Wind (Kusini) – June to October

  • Cooler and more humid than Kaskazi.

  • Brings stable air and moderate wind strength, offering steady soaring conditions and comfortable flight temperatures.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

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