Weather in Kenya & How It Affects Performance of Tires

Weather in Kenya & How It Affects Performance of Tires

Weather can have a significant impact on the condition and performance of tires,
especially in Kenya where the climate is characterized by a mix of tropical and
subtropical weather conditions. The varied climate patterns that characterize Kenya
may cause different tire issues that could affect the safety of drivers on the road.
In this essay, we will discuss how weather affects tires in Kenya and the measures that
drivers can take to ensure their safety on the roads. Read on on weather in Kenya & how It affects performance of tires

Rainy Season

Kenya experiences two rainy seasons each year, the long rains from March to May, and
the short rains from October to December. During the rainy season, drivers must be
particularly cautious since the wet roads can cause hydroplaning. Hydroplaning occurs
when a layer of water forms between the tires and the road surface, leading to a loss of
traction and control over the vehicle. In addition, rainwater can cause tire degradation
and even damage the tires.
Driving on wet roads can cause a phenomenon known as aquaplaning or hydroplaning,
where the tires lose contact with the road and start gliding on a layer of water, leading to
loss of control of the vehicle. When this happens, the driver may not be able to steer,
brake, or accelerate, which could lead to an accident. The risk of hydroplaning is
particularly high when driving at high speeds or when the tire treads are worn out. To
avoid hydroplaning, drivers must slow down, increase the distance between their vehicle
and the car in front of them, and maintain their tires in good condition.
Moreover, the rainy season in Kenya often causes flash floods, which could cause
vehicles to get stuck in mud or deep water. Driving through flooded areas can damage
tires, and water can seep into the wheel rims and affect the air pressure in the tires.
Drivers must, therefore, avoid driving through deep water or flooded areas to avoid tire
damage.

Hot and Dry Season

Kenya also experiences a hot and dry season between January and February and from
June to September. During this time, the temperatures can soar to as high as 40°C,
which could cause tire blowouts. When the temperature rises, the air in the tires
expands, which could lead to overinflation. Overinflated tires have less contact with the
road, leading to reduced traction, and could also wear out faster.
On the other hand, underinflated tires are more prone to damage and can cause
increased fuel consumption. Drivers should, therefore, maintain their tires at the
recommended pressure levels to avoid over or underinflation. It is also advisable to
check the tire pressure regularly and before embarking on long trips.

Dusty Conditions

Kenya’s dry season often leads to dusty conditions on the roads, particularly in rural
areas. Driving in dusty conditions can cause wear and tear on tires, as the dirt and dust
can seep into the tire treads, causing them to wear out faster. The dust can also cause
abrasions on the tire surface, leading to punctures or cuts. Drivers should, therefore,
avoid driving in dusty areas as much as possible or drive slowly to minimize the impact
of the dust on their tires.

Humid Conditions

Humid conditions can also affect the performance of tires in Kenya. Humidity can cause
the rubber in the tires to soften and degrade, leading to reduced traction and increased
wear and tear. Humidity can also cause corrosion of the metal parts of the tire rims,
leading to air leakage and increased risk of blowouts. To avoid these issues, drivers
should store their vehicles in dry and well-ventilated areas and maintain their tires
regularly.

Conclusion
In conclusion, weather conditions in Kenya can significantly impact the condition and
performance of tires. During the rainy season, drivers must be cautious to avoid
hydroplaning and tire damage. In the hot and dry season, drivers must ensure their tires
are not overinflated, while in dusty conditions, they must drive slowly to minimize wear
and tear. Finally, in humid conditions, drivers must store their vehicles in dry and
well-ventilated areas and maintain their tires regularly. Weather in Kenya & How It Affects Performance of Tires
To ensure the safety of drivers and passengers on Kenyan roads, it is important for
drivers to maintain their tires in good condition and regularly