NAIROBI, Nov 3 (NNN-KBC) — Kenya’s meteorological department is warning of possible floods in the wake of heavy rains pounding most of the country.
According to the weatherman, the heavy rainfall being experienced over the northeast, northwest and central highlands is expected to intensify and spread to Nairobi, the south-eastern lowlands, the western sector, and the coast.
The heavy rainfall of more than 30mm in 24 hours is likely to continue between Friday the 3rd and Sunday the 5th.
The weatherman has identified Marsabit, Mandera Wajir, Garissa, Isiolo,Samburu,Turkana,Embu,Nyeri Kiambu, Nyandarua, Laikipia, Murang’a, Meru, Kirinyaga, Tharaka Nithi, Nairobi, 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, Lamu, Tana-River, Taita Taveta ,Kwale, Kilifi and Mombasa counties as areas of concern.
In its advisory, the department is urging residents in affected regions to be on the lookout for potential floods warning that flood waters may appear in places where it has not rained heavily especially downstream.
“Residents are advised to avoid driving through, or walking in moving water or open fields and not to shelter under trees and near grilled windows when raining to minimize exposure to lightning strikes,” advises the weatherman.
According to the forecast, the intensity is projected to reduce on Monday Nov 6 over the south-eastern lowlands and parts of the northeast with the rains likely to be accompanied by gusty winds.
“The strong winds may blow off roofs, uproot trees and cause structural damages. People in landslide prone areas especially over the slopes of the Aberdare ranges, Mt. Kenya and other hilly areas over the western region should be vigilant,” cautions the weatherman.
In its November weather outlook, the met department’s report had indicated the presence of Elnino conditions and a positive Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD which are typically associated with above-average rainfall. — NNN-KBC
