Kenya Meteorological Department Prepares Disaster Mitigation Plans for Rainy Season

The Kenya Meteorological Department is implementing disaster mitigation strategies for the upcoming rainy season. Key officials, including Joyce Kimutai, emphasize the importance of sharing forecasts and collaborating with stakeholders to prepare for changing weather patterns, particularly concerning rainfall predictions and temperature fluctuations. Dr. David Gikungu also highlighted recent temperature rises as a precursor to the rainy season.

The Kenya Meteorological Department has initiated disaster mitigation strategies to prepare for adverse weather conditions during the impending rainy season. Principal Meteorologist and Climate Scientist Joyce Kimutai discussed these measures in a recent television interview, highlighting the importance of keeping counties updated on climate patterns. This process starts with the department developing forecasts, which are subsequently shared with county officials for detailed analysis and preparation.

The Department conducts participatory workshops that include stakeholders from sectors sensitive to weather variations. These collaborative efforts aim to generate essential information for better preparation in advance of potential adverse conditions. Kimutai emphasized the significance of understanding regional climate histories to inform these preparations effectively.

Kimutai elaborated on the methodology used to assess expected rainfall, stating, “For example, in the lake region, if the normal is 120 millimetres, the above normal can be above that, reaching 200 or even 300 millimetres.” She explained that forecasting above-normal conditions suggests that most days during the rainy season will exceed normal rain distribution.

Furthermore, she underscored the importance of engaging local communities and stakeholders, particularly farmers, to make informed decisions related to their activities. This approach, according to Kimutai, significantly reduces risks associated with extreme weather impacts.

On March 4, Dr. David Gikungu, the Director of the Kenya Meteorological Department, discussed the unusually high temperatures recorded over the past two months. These temperatures peaked at 32°C in the Highlands East of the Rift Valley, including areas such as Nairobi and Kiambu, while other regions recorded surpassing 36°C.

Dr. Gikungu noted that these high temperatures are typical before the onset of the long rains. He explained that the sun’s position over the equator leads to increased heating, creating low pressure that, in turn, affects weather patterns, resulting in heavy rainfall in certain areas while causing dryness in others.

In summary, the Kenya Meteorological Department is proactivel addressing climate challenges by sharing forecasts with local stakeholders and communities in anticipation of the rainy season. Engaging with local farmers and using historical climate data are crucial steps to mitigate potential risks associated with adverse weather patterns. As temperatures rise, understanding these dynamic changes is essential for effective preparation and response.

Original Source: www.kenyans.co.ke