Kenya is divided by the equator and enjoys a tropical climate. It is hot and humid at the coast, temperate inland and very dry in the arid north and northeastern parts of the country. The hottest period is February and March and the coldest is July and August. The average annual temperatures in the main areas are Mombasa (72°F - 86°F); Nairobi (55°F - 77°F); and North Plainlands (73°F - 92°F). The long rains occur from April to June and short rains from October to December. Rainfall is sometimes heavy and mostly occurs during afternoon or early evening hours.