Kenya Power warns of potential power disruptions amid heavy rains
Kenya Power has issued a warning of possible power outages and interruptions as the country continues to be inundated by heavy rains, threatening the integrity of the electricity distribution infrastructure.
The electricity distribution company has warned customers that there may be power cuts due to damage caused by flooding and downed power lines.
In addition, the collapse of electricity pylons during high winds, flash floods or mudslides could exacerbate the situation and lead to further challenges in power distribution.
The warning comes as the Kenya Meteorological Department predicts that heavy rains will continue across the country for the next seven days.
The Met Office has stressed that the rains will be widespread, with particularly heavy downpours expected in the Central Highlands, Western Kenya, Rift Valley, South Eastern Lowlands, Coast, North Eastern and North Western regions.
In its forecast, which is valid until 8 April, the Met Office has advised Kenyans to remain vigilant for possible flooding in areas expected to receive heavy rainfall.
During the same period, several counties including Turkana, Marsabit, Mandera, Wajir, Isiolo, Garissa, Tana River, Lamu, Kilifi, Mombasa and Kwale are expected to experience high average daytime temperatures of over 30 degrees Celsius.
However, night-time temperatures are also expected to remain high, exceeding 25 degrees Celsius, especially along the coast and in north-eastern Kenya.
As the country braces for continued heavy rains and potential challenges to power distribution, Kenya Power is urging customers to remain cautious and be prepared for possible disruptions while the adverse weather conditions persist.
A week ago, Nairobi County was hit by a deadly downpour that killed at least seven people who were swept away by floods.
Among those who lost their lives was a Grade Six pupil of Ushirika Primary School in Dandora Phase 5 area who was swept away by the raging waters while trying to cross the makeshift bridge on her way to school.
Her body has yet to be recovered by the rescue team, along with that of a man who tried to save the girl’s life but was also swept into the Nairobi River by the floods.