Kenya Meteorological Department Issues Warning for Heavy Rain and Flooding Risk

The Kenya Meteorological Department has cautioned of heavy rains starting March 9th, warning of flooding risks in several areas. Rainfall is expected to exceed 30mm within 24 hours starting March 10th, affecting regions such as the Lake Victoria Basin and various counties. Residents are advised to avoid trees and remain vigilant during thunderstorms.

The Kenya Meteorological Department has issued a warning for heavy rain set to start on Sunday, March 9th, affecting multiple regions throughout the nation. Residents are cautioned about the risk of flooding and flash floods due to predicted rainfall exceeding 20mm initially, escalating to over 30mm within a 24-hour period starting Monday, March 10th. The rains are expected to gradually spread to northwestern Kenya before subsiding around March 11th, as stated by Dr. David Gikungu, Director of Kenya Meteorological Services.

Areas anticipated to suffer the most significant impacts include the Lake Victoria Basin, parts of the Rift Valley, and the highlands both west and east of the Rift Valley, including the Nairobi metropolitan area. Specific counties at heightened risk include Narok, Kericho, Kisumu, Nyeri, Bomet, Bungoma, Nakuru, Machakos, Kajiado, Kiambu, Kisii, Nyandarua, and Turkana. Residents in these areas are urged to maintain vigilance due to the potential for severe weather conditions.

In the event of thunderstorms, citizens are advised against sheltering under trees or near grilled windows to mitigate the risk of lightning strikes. The Meteorological Department commits to providing timely updates should the weather forecast change. This warning coincides with the onset of the long rains season, which typically lasts from March to May, with April generally experiencing the heaviest rainfall, often around the Easter holiday.

“Residents in all the mentioned areas are advised to be on the lookout for potential floods, flash floods and poor visibility. People are advised not to shelter under trees and near grilled windows to minimise exposure to lightning strikes,” states the meteorological authority. The areas mentioned are known to receive over 300mm of seasonal rainfall, essential for agricultural yields and replenishing water resources. Despite the critical nature of these rains, they also pose substantial risks, including infrastructure damage, community displacement, and increased public health concerns.

In summary, the Kenya Meteorological Department’s alert highlights the imminent risk of heavy rains and potential flooding across significant portions of the country beginning March 9th. Residents in specific regions are advised to exercise caution and avoid locations that may expose them to lightning. While the upcoming rains are crucial for agriculture and water replenishment, they also bring considerable challenges that necessitate preparedness and vigilance.

Original Source: www.mwakilishi.com