The Kenya Meteorological Department has issued a weather advisory warning Kenyans to brace for heavy rainfall across various regions from Tuesday, April 8, to Monday, April 14. The forecast highlights potential impacts, including flooding and thunderstorms in specific areas, alongside temperature fluctuations in others.
Regions Expecting Heavy Rainfall
The advisory outlines several regions likely to experience substantial rainfall:
- Central Highlands
Counties affected: Nyandarua, Laikipia, Nyeri, Kirinyaga, Murang’a, Kiambu, Meru, Embu, Tharaka Nithi, and Nairobi.
- Rainfall will mainly occur in the afternoons and continue into the night.
- Western and Rift Valley Regions
Counties affected: Siaya, Kisumu, Homabay, Migori, Kisii, Nyamira, Trans Nzoia, Baringo, Uasin Gishu, Elgeyo-Marakwet, Nandi, Nakuru, Narok, and Kericho.
- Expected rainfall includes thunderstorms, with a warning for possible flooding in low-lying areas.
- Other Regions
Counties such as Bomet, Kakamega, Vihiga, Bungoma, Busia, West Pokot, Turkana, and Samburu are also expected to experience heavy rains over the forecast period.
Moderate Rainfall for Select Regions
Moderate rains are forecast for counties like Kitui, Makueni, Machakos, Kajiado, and Taita Taveta, as well as coastal areas including Mombasa, Kilifi, Lamu, Kwale, and Tana River.
Temperature Variations
- Cold Nights in Central and Nairobi Regions
Residents in Nyandarua, Laikipia, Nyeri, Kirinyaga, Murang’a, Kiambu, Meru, Embu, Tharaka Nithi, and Nairobi should prepare for chilly nights, with temperatures dropping below 10°C for the first three days of the forecast. Temperatures may rise slightly to 11°C later in the week. - Hot Days in Coastal and Northeastern Counties
Daytime temperatures in Mombasa, Kilifi, Lamu, Kwale, Marsabit, Mandera, Wajir, Garissa, and Isiolo are expected to exceed 30°C for most days during the forecast period.
Potential Impacts and Recommendations
- Flooding and Thunderstorms: Residents in heavy rainfall regions are advised to take precautions against flooding, especially in low-lying areas.
- Cold Weather Preparedness: Ensure adequate clothing and heating to manage cold night temperatures in the Central Highlands.
- Hot Weather Measures: Stay hydrated and avoid prolonged exposure to high daytime temperatures in the coastal and northeastern regions.
The Kenya Meteorological Department continues to monitor weather patterns and advises Kenyans to stay updated via its official channels for timely alerts.
