The Kenya Meteorological Service Authority (KMSA) has issued a heavy rainfall advisory warning residents in several parts of the country to prepare for moderate to heavy rainfall, strong winds and rough sea conditions beginning Saturday evening.
In an advisory issued on Friday, October 23, KMSA said rainfall exceeding 20 millimetres within 24 hours is expected in parts of the Coast, Northeastern, Highlands West and East of the Rift Valley, Central Highlands, including some parts of Nairobi, and the Southeastern Lowlands.
According to the weatherman, rainfall is expected to intensify between Monday, October 26, and Wednesday, October 28, before gradually easing towards October 30.
Counties on Alert
The counties expected to be affected include Kwale, Mombasa, Kilifi, Tana River and Lamu in the Coast region, as well as Garissa, Wajir, Mandera, Marsabit and Isiolo in the northeastern and northern parts of the country.
Other areas on alert include Migori, Nyamira, Bungoma, Busia, Kakamega, Vihiga, West Pokot, Baringo, Elgeyo Marakwet, Trans Nzoia, Nandi, Uasin Gishu, Nakuru, Siaya, Kisumu, Homa Bay, Kisii, Kericho and Bomet.
The advisory also covers Kiambu, Embu, Murang’a, Kirinyaga, Nyandarua, Nyeri, Laikipia, Tharaka-Nithi, Meru, Narok and Kajiado, alongside parts of Nairobi, Taita-Taveta, Kitui, Machakos and Makueni counties.
Strong Winds and High Temperatures Expected
KMSA warned that the rainfall could be accompanied by gusty winds, with strong southerly to southeasterly winds exceeding 25 knots, equivalent to approximately 46 kilometres per hour, expected in coastal, eastern and northern regions.
Ocean waves exceeding two metres are also forecast along the coast on Sunday, October 25, prompting a caution to those undertaking maritime activities.
Despite the expected rainfall, high temperatures are forecast to persist in some parts of the country, particularly in northern Kenya.
Residents Urged to Remain Vigilant
The weatherman has urged residents in the affected areas to remain alert for possible flash floods and poor visibility.
It cautioned that floodwaters can occur in areas that have not experienced heavy rainfall, particularly downstream, and advised residents to avoid taking shelter under trees or near grilled windows during thunderstorms because of the risk of lightning strikes.
Those in areas experiencing high temperatures have also been advised to remain hydrated and avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight.
KMSA said further updates would be issued promptly if there were any changes to the forecast.
