Kenya Met Issues Heavy Rainfall Advisory Across Several Counties

Kenya Met has issued a heavy rainfall advisory warning that downpours exceeding 20 millimetres within 24 hours are expected to continue in several parts of the country until March 9.

In the advisory released on March 3 at 4pm, the department said the rains, which began earlier this week, are likely to intensify and peak between March 4 and March 7 before reducing in most areas by March 8.

However, heavy rainfall is expected to persist in some regions, including the Lake Victoria Basin, Western Kenya, parts of the Central Highlands, the Southeastern lowlands and the Coastal region until March 9.

The advisory, classified as moderate to heavy in severity, indicates a moderate probability of occurrence, estimated between 33 and 66 per cent.

Counties listed as areas of concern include Turkana, Samburu, 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.

Others are Kiambu, Embu, Murang’a, Kirinyaga, Nyandarua, Nyeri, Laikipia, Tharaka-Nithi, Meru, Nairobi, Narok, Kajiado, Makueni, Machakos, Taita-Taveta, Kitui, Kwale, Mombasa, Tana River, Kilifi, Isiolo, Marsabit, Garissa and parts of Wajir and Mandera.

The department cautioned residents in the affected areas to remain vigilant for potential floods, flash floods and poor visibility. It warned that floodwaters could appear in areas that may not have experienced heavy rainfall, particularly downstream regions.

“Residents in all the mentioned areas are advised to be on the lookout for potential floods, flash floods and poor visibility,” the advisory states. “People are advised to avoid driving through or walking in moving water or open fields and not to shelter under trees and near grilled windows to minimize exposure to lightning strikes.”

The agency added that updates would be issued promptly if there are any changes in the weather outlook.

The advisory was addressed to key national and county government offices, including the Presidency, the Ministry of Environment, Climate Change and Forestry, the National Disaster Operations Centre, the Kenya Red Cross, county governments and the media.

Authorities are urging members of the public to monitor official weather updates and adhere to safety guidelines as the country experiences the ongoing rains.