Kenya Meteorological Department Issues Warning for Heavy Rains and Flooding Risks
The Kenya Meteorological Department has issued a warning for heavy rains expected to start on March 9th, with intensified rainfall and flooding risks forecasted for several regions. Key areas of concern include the Lake Victoria Basin, Rift Valley, and parts of the highlands. Citizens are advised to take precautions during thunderstorms, as risks of lightning and flooding are elevated. The seasonal rains, while vital, also present challenges such as infrastructure damage and public health risks.
The Kenya Meteorological Department has issued a public warning regarding heavy rainfall anticipated to commence on Sunday, March 9th, across various regions in the country. Residents are advised to remain vigilant as the downpour is likely to intensify, increasing the risk of flooding and flash floods. Rainfall is expected to surpass 20mm initially and escalate to over 30mm within a 24-hour span beginning Monday, March 10th, as reported by Dr. David Gikungu, Director of Kenya Meteorological Services.
Regions expected to experience the most significant effects of this rainfall include the Lake Victoria Basin, parts of the Rift Valley, highland areas both west and east of the Rift Valley, and the southeastern lowlands. Specific counties identified as being at greater risk are Narok, Kericho, Kisumu, Nyeri, Bomet, Bungoma, Nakuru, Machakos, Kajiado, Kiambu, Kisii, Nyandarua, and Turkana.
Citizens are encouraged to refrain from taking shelter under trees or near windows with grills during thunderstorms, as this increases the likelihood of lightning strikes. The Meteorological Department has committed to providing further updates as necessary should the weather forecast change. This warning aligns with the onset of Kenya’s long rains season, which typically runs from March to May, with April historically receiving the heaviest rainfall—often coinciding with the Easter period.
The weatherman states, “Residents in all the mentioned areas are advised to be on the lookout for potential floods, flash floods and poor visibility. People are advised not to shelter under trees and near grilled windows to minimise exposure to lightning strikes.” Seasonal rainfall exceeding 300mm is common in regions such as the Lake Victoria Basin, Central and South Rift Valley, highlands east of the Rift Valley, and the coastal strip, making these rains essential for agricultural productivity and replenishing water resources across the country. However, while crucial, these seasonal rains can also pose significant challenges, including damage to infrastructure, community displacement, and increased public health risks.
The Kenya Meteorological Department’s warning highlights the imminent risk of heavy rainfall and flooding in various regions. With specific areas identified for heightened concern, residents are urged to exercise caution and stay indoors during thunderstorms. While critical for agriculture and water resources, the upcoming rainy season also poses various risks that require public awareness and preparedness.
Original Source: www.mwakilishi.com
