Question

Would you find snow in Kenya, why or why not (remember the elevation)?

Answer 1

Snow can be found in some regions of Kenya, more specifically, its mountainous regions. This East African country has diverse climatic conditions and terrains ranging from the hot and dry deserts to cool and wet highlands. Kenya resides along the Equator with its highest point being Mt. Kenya recorded at 5,197 meters and its lowest elevation witnessed at the sea level where its landmass meets the Indian Ocean. The presence of snow in a given landscape is determined by its elevation; the higher you go the cooler it becomes. The snow line at the equator and its surrounding regions begin at 4500 meters and above. At 5,197 meters, Mt. Kenya meets this requirement; therefore, enjoys the presence of snow at its peak throughout the year. Other regions that have a lower elevation and harsher climatic conditions do not have snow.

Answer 2

Snow in Kenya is not a particularly common sight, given that the east Africa country sits right on the equator and has vast stretches of semi-desert scrubland. And yet, there is one spot where you can always find snow in Kenya.

Mount Kenya is the tallest mountain in Kenya, and the second highest in all of Africa. Only Tanzania's Mount Kilimanjaro towers higher. The top of Mount Kenya is perpetually snow-covered due to the high elevation. In fact, the Meru people call the mountain "Kirimara", which translates from their language to "that which has white stuff", in reference to the white peaks.