The Kenya Meteorological Department issued a cautionary advisory on Monday, April 1, alerting residents in seven regions of the country to brace for potential flooding between April 2 and April 8.
The regions highlighted in the advisory are the Central Highlands, Western Kenya, Rift Valley, Southeast lowlands, Coast, North-eastern, and Northwestern.
Residents were urged to exercise vigilance during this period to mitigate the risks of casualties and property damage, echoing the challenges witnessed in the preceding week.
“Expect widespread rainfall across the country with heavy downpours forecasted in the above regions. Stay prepared for potential flooding in these areas,” the statement from the department emphasized.
Additionally, the Kenya Meteorological Department highlighted unusually high temperatures in 11 counties, where daytime temperatures are expected to exceed 30 degrees Celsius.
These counties comprise Turkana, Marsabit, Mandera, Wajir, Isiolo, Garissa, Tana River, Lamu, Kilifi, Mombasa, and Kwale.
Conversely, most parts of the country will experience temperatures ranging between 20 and 30 degrees Celsius, with some areas dipping below 10 degrees Celsius.
Residents in these counties were advised to remain hydrated, seek shade, and minimize prolonged exposure to the sun to avert heat-related illnesses such as sunstroke, heat rash, and heat cramps.
Furthermore, the department alerted residents to anticipate warm nights in the Coast and North Eastern regions during the coming week.
“Ensure proper ventilation and use light bedding to stay comfortable during the warm nights,” the statement recommended.
Nighttime temperatures in these areas are expected to exceed 25 degrees Celsius.
The advisory also underscored the fluctuating weather patterns witnessed across the country since the onset of the year, with intermittent heavy rainfall and sunny spells. In February, Nairobi residents were cautioned about temperatures soaring up to 31 degrees Celsius.
The recent heavy rainfall experienced in Nairobi and other counties towards the end of March resulted in property damage, business disruptions, and loss of lives.
