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Expect heavy rains, high temperatures across Kenya says Met

A flooded section Kenyatta Avenue in Nairobi's CBD following heavy rains in the capital on March 23, 2023. PHOTO | DENNIS ONSONGO

The Kenya Meteorological Department (Met) has forecasted heavy rainfall and high temperatures in most parts of the country.

In a notice on Monday evening, director of Kenya Meteorological Department David Gikungu said areas to be affected lie within the South Rift Valley, Lake Victoria, Highlands West and Central Highlands.

This includes Western, South Rift Valley, Lake Victoria Basin, Central Highlands, Southeastern Lowlands, and Northwestern, with a probability of occurrence ranging from 33 to 60 per cent.

The weatherman also cautioned that these rains may lead to flash floods in certain areas, urging residents to remain vigilant. The rainfall is expected to persist until the end of the week.

“Moderate rainfall is expected in Nairobi County. It’s important for everyone to stay prepared and safe,” said Gikungu.

He added that the heavy rainfall is also likely to spread to Southeast lowlands on Tuesday and Wednesday. It is likely to reduce in intensity on Thursday.

The forecast indicated that the rains will be accompanied with winds of speeds exceeding 10 meters per second over the Northwestern parts of the country.

Meanwhile, residents of Turkana, Samburu, Marsabit, Mandera, Wajir, Isiolo, Garissa, Tana River, Lamu, Kilifi, Mombasa, Kwale, Taita Taveta, Kajiado, Makueni, Kitui, Laikipia, Baringo, West Pokot, Bungoma, Kakamega, and Busia should brace for high daytime temperatures exceeding 30 degrees Celsius.

These conditions could increase the risk of health issues like dehydration and heat exhaustion.

Parts of Nyeri, Laikipia, and Murang’a counties are expected to experience chilly nights with temperatures dipping below 10 degrees Celsius.

“Residents are advised to avoid driving through or walking in moving water and open fields and not to shelter under trees and grilled windows to minimise exposure to lightning strikes,” he said.

The public is advised to stay informed about the changing weather patterns and to adhere to safety precautions.

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