Kenya Meteorological Department Issues Warning for Heavy Rains and Flooding Risks Ahead
The Kenya Meteorological Department has warned of heavy rainfall beginning March 9th, amplified risk of flooding is expected across various regions. Areas such as the Lake Victoria Basin and parts of the Rift Valley are particularly at risk. Residents are advised to take caution, avoid risky sheltering spots, and stay informed of updates during the onset of the long rains season.
The Kenya Meteorological Department has announced an alert regarding heavy rainfall anticipated to commence on March 9th, affecting several regions nationwide. Residents are advised to remain vigilant as intensified downpours are expected to significantly raise the risk of flooding and flash floods, especially with forecasted rainfall surpassing 20mm and potentially exceeding 30mm on March 10th.
Areas forecasted to bear the brunt of the rainfall include the Lake Victoria Basin, parts of the Rift Valley, and both the western and eastern highlands of the Rift Valley, notably the Nairobi metropolitan area and southeastern lowlands. Key counties highlighted include Narok, Kericho, Kisumu, Nyeri, Bomet, Bungoma, Nakuru, Machakos, Kajiado, Kiambu, Kisii, Nyandarua, and Turkana, all of which face heightened flood risks.
Citizens are advised to avoid taking refuge under trees or near grilled windows during thunderstorms to mitigate the risk of lightning strikes. The Meteorological Department has committed to providing updates should forecast conditions change. This advisory is strategically timed with the onset of Kenya’s long rains season, which typically spans March to May, with April historically experiencing peak rainfall coinciding with the Easter holiday.
Key regions such as the Lake Victoria Basin, Central and South Rift Valley, eastern highlands, and the coastal strip are known to receive over 300mm of seasonal rainfall. Such precipitation is essential for agricultural productivity and the replenishing of water resources across the nation. However, while these seasonal rains are beneficial, they also bring potential hazards including infrastructure damage, community displacement, and increased public health risks.
The Kenya Meteorological Department’s alert emphasizes the impending heavy rainfall and associated flooding risks in various regions. It is imperative for residents in the affected areas to heed safety precautions, especially during thunderstorms. The impending rains highlight the dual nature of seasonal rainfall—while crucial for agriculture and water resources, they also pose significant risks, underscoring the need for community preparedness and vigilance during this critical period.
Original Source: www.mwakilishi.com
