The Kenya Meteorological Department has issued a heavy rainfall alert due to prolonged heat. Increased rainfall is expected between March 9 and March 11, 2025, with risks of floods and landslides highlighted. Residents are advised to take precautions and stay informed.
Nairobi – The Kenya Meteorological Department has recently issued a heavy rainfall alert due to prolonged hot and dry conditions affecting various regions of the country. This advisory, released on the previous Saturday, forecasts increased rainfall expected between March 9 and March 11, 2025. Dr. David Gikungu, the Director of Kenya Meteorological Services, indicated that the rainfall could exceed 30 mm within a 24-hour period and extend into northwestern Kenya on March 10, 2025, with a decrease in intensity anticipated on March 11.
This warning follows an extended period of extreme temperatures across Kenya, where several areas recorded heat levels ranging from 37°C to 40°C during February and early March. This heatwave has resulted in water shortages, diminished crop yields, and elevated risks of wildfires, particularly in counties like Turkana, Baringo, and parts of the Rift Valley. Nairobi and central Kenya have witnessed record-breaking weathert conditions, heightening the demand for water and electricity.
The latest advisory highlights that rain exceeding 20mm may occur within 24 hours across regions including the Lake Victoria Basin, the Rift Valley, and the Highlands to the east and west of the Rift Valley, with Nairobi and southeastern lowlands also included. Impacted counties comprise Narok, Kericho, Bomet, Homa Bay, Siaya, Migori, Busia, Kisumu, Kisii, Nyamira, Nandi, Kakamega, Vihiga, Bungoma, Baringo, Nakuru, Trans-Nzoia, Uasin-Gishu, Elgeyo-Marakwet, West-Pokot, Turkana, Marsabit, Nyandarua, Laikipia, Nyeri, Kirinyaga, Murang’a, Kiambu, Nairobi, Machakos, and Kajiado.
Authorities have alerted residents regarding the potential dangers stemming from this swift transition from extreme heat to heavy rainfall, including heightened risks of flash floods, landslides, and impaired visibility. Residents are urged to remain vigilant against possible floods and poor visibility conditions. Furthermore, the advisory advises against taking shelter under trees or close to grilled windows to decrease the chances of lightning strikes. Experts underscore that this abrupt climatic shift could worsen soil erosion, overwhelm drainage systems, and create risks to infrastructure; thus, residents are encouraged to take precautionary actions and stay updated with official meteorological information.
In summary, the Kenya Meteorological Department has issued a warning of heavy rainfall following an extended period of extreme heat, highlighting potential risks of floods and landslides. Authorities recommend vigilance as conditions shift dramatically, urging residents to take necessary precautions. The significant rainfall forecast, impacting several counties, is crucial for addressing water shortages but may also lead to infrastructure challenges. Staying informed through official channels is essential for public safety during this transition.
Original Source: chimpreports.com
