Dr. David Gikungu, Director of the Kenya Meteorological Department, states high temperatures in Kenya are typical before the long rains, with rainfall expected to begin next week. Despite warmer-than-average predictions, specific region forecasts indicate near-to-below-average rainfall, especially in coastal and highland areas, peaking in May.
According to Dr. David Gikungu, the Director of the Kenya Meteorological Department, the high temperatures currently experienced across Kenya are typical prior to the onset of the long rains. These elevated temperatures, which have been present since December, have reached 32°C in the Highlands East of the Rift Valley, including Nairobi and Kiambu, while other regions have seen highs exceeding 36°C.
During a recent interview aired on KBC, Dr. Gikungu stated that rainfall is anticipated to commence next week in areas such as Nairobi. He noted, “This season that we are looking to begin in mid-March is always preceded by very high temperatures.” He further elaborated that temperature variations result from the sun’s position and the Earth’s movement around it.
Dr. Gikungu explained that as the sun shifts towards its position over the equator, it creates significant heating and low pressure, which in turn attracts winds. He remarked, “When these winds are blowing over masses of water, like the ocean, they will bring with them the clouds that result in rainfall.” This process is expected to lead to a decrease in temperatures.
Last week, the Kenya Meteorological Department announced the expected commencement of the March-April-May long rains season, projected to begin next week. The department’s Seasonal Weather Forecast for March-April-May (MAM) 2025 indicates that warmer-than-average temperatures are likely across the nation, with heightened probabilities along coastal and northern regions.
Although specific temperatures for individual locations, such as Nairobi, Kisumu, Nakuru, Mombasa, and Kiambu, are not detailed in the forecast, it suggests that regions like the Highlands East of the Rift Valley, including Nairobi County, may experience near-to-below-average rainfall during this period. The coastal area, notably Mombasa, is also expected to receive similar rainfall levels, with the peak rains forecasted for May.
In summary, Kenya is experiencing high temperatures typical before the long rains, set to begin next week. The Kenya Meteorological Department anticipates warmer weather across the nation and predicts near-to-below-average rainfall for key regions. The onset of the rains is crucial for alleviating the current heat, which is influenced significantly by the sun’s movement around the Earth.
Original Source: www.kenyans.co.ke
