Kenya Met Warns Of Possible Flooding In 7 Areas

The Kenya Meteorological Department (KMD) has warned Kenyans living in seven regions across the country to prepare for potential floods.

In its weather forecast for the next one week, April 2 to April 8, 2024, the weatherman indicated that widespread rainfall with heavy downpours are expected countrywide.

"Expect widespread rainfall across the country, with heavy downpours forecasted for Central Highlands, Western Kenya, Rift Valley, Southeast lowlands, Coast, Northeast, and Northwest regions. Stay prepared for potential flooding in these areas," stated the weatherman.

However, Kenya Met warned of high temperatures in certain counties, with residents urged to stay hydrated and take necessary precautions to avoid heat-related illnesses.

Moreover, the forecast indicated warm nights ahead for parts of the country, with night-time temperatures expected to remain high, surpassing 25°C.

"High Temperatures Alert! Some counties, including Turkana, Marsabit, Mandera, Wajir, Isiolo, Garissa, Tana River, Lamu, Kilifi, Mombasa, and Kwale, will experience high average daytime temperatures exceeding 30°C. Stay hydrated," added the weatherman.

"Warm nights ahead. Night-time temperatures are expected to remain high, surpassing 25°C, particularly along the Coast and in Northeastern Kenya."

Last week, Nairobi-based IGAD Climate Predictions and Applications Centre announced that heavy rains were expected throughout April and higher-than-usual temperatures.

ICPAC said the rains will cease towards the end of May in most parts of the country. 

The Centre said southeastern Kenya, which includes Ukambani and parts of the coast, will generally be dry toward June.

The latest forecast came after Nairobi Governor, Johnson Sakaja issued five directives after a heavy downpour on Sunday night, March 24 through to the wee hours of Monday morning, March 25 caused chaos in the capital and even claimed the life of a police officer.

The county boss directed the Nairobi Water and Sewerage Company to mobilise its water bowsers and deploy them to the affected areas to provide residents with clean drinking water.

He also tasked public health officers and Community Health Promoters (CHPs) to intensify on-ground support through the distribution of water treatment tablets as well as offer psychosocial support to those affected.

Sakaja further tasked Green Nairobi to form and deploy 170 Green Army personnel to be available as a rapid response unit ready to be deployed to unblock and unclog drainages in hot spot areas, stating "This will complement the normal activities of the rest of the Green Army."

"The deployment of technical staff and necessary equipment to immediately commence unclogging sewers and cleaning drainage systems in affected areas. Backhoes, Wheel loaders, Flushing units, Excavators," Sakaja stated in part.

He also tasked the Disaster Management Team to collaborate with the National Police Service, National Disaster Operations Centre and the Red Cross to aid in the search and recovery efforts of the missing persons.

The officer was among four people who lost their lives during the heavy rainfall in Nairobi.

The downpour led to flooded roads and walkways, creating challenging conditions for residents as they struggled to commute to their workplaces.