Kenya Met Issues Fresh Warning as Heavy Rains Set to Hit Nairobi and 10 Other Regions
The Kenya Meteorological Department has released a new weather alert, warning that heavy rainfall is expected to affect large parts of the country, including Nairobi and at least ten other regions, over the next six days.
In its latest advisory, the department stated that the rains are set to resume on the night of March 18 and continue steadily until the morning of March 24. During this period, many areas are likely to experience moderate to heavy downpours, with the probability of rainfall estimated to be between 33 per cent and 66 per cent.
This means there is a considerable chance that the weather conditions could disrupt daily activities in both towns and rural communities.
The forecast shows that several counties will be affected by the rains. These include Kiambu County, Nakuru County, Kisumu County, Mombasa County, Uasin Gishu County, Kakamega County, Bungoma County, Busia County, and Nyeri County, among many others listed in the nationwide outlook.
Residents in these areas have been urged to prepare for possible disruptions, especially in places where drainage systems may not handle heavy rainfall effectively.
Even regions that are usually dry have not been left out of the warning. Areas such as Turkana County, Garissa County, and parts of Marsabit County and Wajir County are also expected to receive rainfall.
Authorities have cautioned that these regions could experience sudden flash floods, which can be dangerous because the ground in such areas does not absorb water quickly.
People living near rivers, streams, and low-lying zones have been advised to stay on high alert. Floodwaters can rise quickly, even in places where rainfall may not seem very heavy, especially in downstream areas where water flows from higher ground.
Residents are being encouraged to move to safer areas if necessary and to keep monitoring weather updates.
Motorists have been strongly warned against attempting to drive through flooded roads, as this can be extremely risky. Fast-moving water can easily sweep away vehicles.
Pedestrians have also been advised to avoid walking through flowing water, as the force of the current can be stronger than it appears.
The department has also highlighted that heavy rains may lead to poor visibility, which could interfere with transport. This includes road travel as well as flight operations, particularly during thunderstorms and intense downpours. Travelers are therefore being urged to plan ahead and exercise caution.
In addition, the public has been warned about lightning risks during storms. People are advised not to seek shelter under trees or near metallic structures such as grilled windows, as these can increase the chances of lightning-related accidents.
In highland areas like the Aberdare Range and the slopes of Mount Kenya, there is also a heightened risk of landslides. This is because continuous rainfall can make the soil loose and unstable, increasing the chances of the ground giving way.
The warning has already been shared with key government and emergency agencies, including the National Disaster Operations Centre, Kenya Red Cross Society, and the Council of Governors.
These institutions are expected to coordinate response efforts and ensure that communities are well prepared for any emergencies that may arise.
Authorities are now urging members of the public to remain alert, follow all safety guidelines, and keep checking for updates as the situation develops. More information will continue to be shared if there are any changes in the weather patterns.
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