Nairobi, Kenya – The Kenya Meteorological Department has issued a heavy rainfall advisory, cautioning of impending floods due to torrential rains across the country.
According to NAM News Network, the current downpours affecting the northeast, northwest, and central highlands of Kenya are anticipated to strengthen and reach additional areas, including Nairobi, the southeastern lowlands, the western sector, and the coastal regions. The downpour, exceeding 30mm within 24 hours, is expected to persist from Friday, November 3rd, through Sunday, November 5th.
Regions marked for heightened vigilance include Marsabit, Mandera, Wajir, Garissa, Isiolo, Samburu, Turkana, Embu, Nyeri, Kiambu, Nyandarua, Laikipia, Murang’a, Meru, Kirinyaga, Tharaka Nithi, Nairobi, as well as multiple counties such as Busia, Kisii, Nyamira, Kericho, Bomet, Nakuru, Narok, Migori, Trans Nzoia, Nandi, West Pokot, Baringo, Uasin Gishu, Elgeyo Marakwet, Vihiga, Bungoma, Homa Bay, Kisumu, Siaya, Kakamega, Kajiado, Machakos, Kitui, Makueni, and coastal counties including Lamu, Tana River, Taita Taveta, Kwale, Kilifi, and Mombasa.
The department has urged residents in the aforementioned areas to exercise caution and remain alert for flood-related hazards. There’s a specific warning about floodwaters emerging in regions where rainfall has been less intense, particularly downstream. The advisory stresses the importance of avoiding traversing or wading through moving water and discourages seeking shelter under trees or close to grilled windows during the storm to reduce the risk of lightning strikes.
Forecasts for Monday, November 6th, suggest a diminution in rainfall intensity over the southeastern lowlands and some northeastern parts, though the weather is likely to bring gusty winds. Such conditions could result in significant property damage, including roof destruction, tree uprooting, and other structural damages. The weatherman has also issued a warning to residents in landslide-susceptible areas, particularly those located on the slopes of the Aberdare ranges, Mount Kenya, and other hilly terrains in the western region, to stay vigilant.
In its November weather outlook, the meteorological department had previously highlighted the potential for above-average rainfall due to the influence of El Niño conditions and a positive Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD).