Kenya Meteorological Department Predicts Rainfall Amidst High Temperatures
High temperatures in Kenya are typical before the long rains, peaking at 32°C. Dr. David Gikungu of the Kenya Meteorological Department forecasts rainfall to begin next week in areas like Nairobi. Warmer-than-average temperatures are expected, with some regions receiving near-to-below-average rainfall during the March-April-May season, particularly in the Highlands and coastal areas.
According to Dr. David Gikungu, the Director of the Kenya Meteorological Department, the high temperatures currently experienced in Kenya are typical before the onset of the long rains. These elevated temperatures, which have persisted since December, reached 32°C in the Highlands east of the Rift Valley, including Nairobi and Kiambu, while other regions of the country recorded temperatures exceeding 36°C.
During an interview with KBC, Dr. Gikungu stated that rainfall is anticipated starting next week in locales such as Nairobi. He noted, “This season that we are looking to begin in mid-March is always preceded by very high temperatures.” He explained the relationship between temperature fluctuations and solar movement, emphasizing the sun’s trajectory as it shifts above the equator, leading to increased heating and low pressure.
Dr. Gikungu elaborated that this heating generates winds which, when drawn across large water bodies like oceans, gather moisture and lead to cloud formation, ultimately resulting in rainfall. This rainfall is expected to cool temperatures across the affected regions.
The Kenya Meteorological Department recently announced the initiation of the March-April-May long rains season, commencing next week. While the seasonal forecast indicates that warmer-than-average temperatures may persist across the country, precise temperature predictions for specific cities were not released. It was, however, noted that regions such as the Highlands East of the Rift Valley, including Nairobi, might experience rainfall below the average for this period.
Moreover, rainfall predictions for the coastal regions, including Mombasa, suggest near-to-below-average precipitation, with the most substantial rainfall expected in May. This sequence suggests a continuing climatic pattern with significant implications for weather trends in Kenya.
In summary, high temperatures in Kenya prior to the long rains are commonplace, with notable peaks reaching 32°C and beyond. The onset of rainfall is anticipated next week, which aligns with typical seasonal changes. The Kenya Meteorological Department forecasts warmer temperatures across the country, with certain regions expecting below-average rainfall. Consequently, the climatic patterns may impact various sectors, including agriculture and water resources.
Original Source: www.kenyans.co.ke
