Kenya Meteorological Department: Anticipated Long Rains Not Yet Started

The Kenya Meteorological Department has indicated that the long rains have not started. The recent rainfall is a prelude, with actual long rains expected to commence in late March or early April. Farmers are advised to wait until this full onset to plant, while high temperatures and winds continue to prevail.

David Gikungu, the Director General of the Kenya Meteorological Department, has clarified that the anticipated long rains in Kenya have not yet commenced. He noted during an interview on Citizen TV that the recent rainfall observed since last Saturday is merely a prelude to the actual long rains, which are expected to initiate in the final week of March or early April.

The intermittent rains, which are anticipated to conclude by mid-week, will still permit some areas, especially in western Kenya, to experience moderate precipitation. Residents in those regions are advised to remain vigilant regarding the weather changes. For those engaging in agriculture, Gikungu recommends postponing planting activities until early April when the long rains are projected to occur in full earnest, thereby maximizing crop viability.

Forecasts indicate that these current showers, which began on March 8, may persist until Wednesday, accompanied by lighter drizzles extending into the weekend. According to the meteorological department’s weekly update, moderate to heavy rainfall is anticipated for eight regions, including the Highlands West and East of the Rift Valley, Lake Victoria Basin, and certain parts of the Coastal Region, beginning March 12.

Despite the recent precipitation, temperatures remain elevated, exceeding 30°C in numerous areas. Furthermore, strong southeasterly winds are sweeping across northwestern and northeastern Kenya, reaching speeds above 25 knots. Thus, while the anticipated rains may provide some relief, the prevailing heat and winds continue to influence the overall weather conditions.

In conclusion, the Kenya Meteorological Department emphasizes that the actual long rains have not yet begun, despite recent showers. The upcoming weeks will see significant developments in expected rainfall, particularly in late March to early April. For farmers, it is prudent to delay planting until this period to optimize crop growth, while remaining aware of the continuing high temperatures and winds affecting the region.

Original Source: nairobiwire.com