By Shadrack Nyakoe
The Kenya Meteorological Department has issued an advisory for heavy rainfall, strong winds and large waves.
The department urges the nation to stay informed and take all necessary precautions to ensure safety.
Heavy rainfall of more than 30mm in 24hrs pounding several parts of the Lake Victoria Basin, the Rift Valley, Highlands West and East of the Rift Valley including Nairobi area is expected to continue from 19th May, 2024.
“The heavy rainfall is predicted to intensify to more than 40mm in 24hrs over the Rift Valley, Highlands West and East of the Rift Valley including Nairobi area, Lake Victoria Basin and off coast on 20th to 21th May, 2024.
It is likely to reduce in intensity on 22nd May 2024 inland but intensify along the coast from 22nd to 24th May.
The heavy rainfall is likely to be accompanied by gusty winds, large Ocean Waves in the Indian Ocean and strong southerly winds in the eastern region,” the meteorological department posted on their social media pages.
The counties to be affected include: Kisumu, Homabay, Siaya, Migori, Busia, Kisii, Nyamira, Nandi, Kericho, Bomet, Kakamega, Vihiga, Bungoma, Narok, Baringo, Nakuru, Trans-Nzoia, Uasin-Gishu, Elgeyo-Marakwet, West-Pokot, Turkana, Samburu, Nyandarua, Laikipia, Nyeri, Kirinyaga, Murang’a, Kiambu, Nairobi, Machakos, Kajiado, Mombasa, Tana-River, Kilifi, Lamu, and Kwale.
“Residents in all the mentioned areas are advised to be on the lookout for potential floods, flash floods and poor visibility.
The water levels in rivers, lakes and dams are expected to remain high. Residents 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 department further stated.
People in landslide prone areas especially over hilly areas have been advised to be vigilant.
The anticipated strong winds may blow off roofs, uproot trees and cause structural damages while large waves may affect marine activities.
Read also:- https://corporatewatch.co.ke/experts-predict-heavy-rains-in-october-december-across-horn-of-africa/
Various state agencies and NGOs including the State Department for Environment and Climate Change; National Intelligence Service, Kenya Red Cross, Kenya Maritime Authority, Kenya Ports Authority, Kenya Airport Authority, National Disaster Operations Centre, National Disaster Management Unit, Council of Governors, County Directors of Meteorological Services have been urged to be on alert to respond to the impacts of the heavy rainfall.
Read also:- https://corporatewatch.co.ke/kirinyaga-323-families-affected-by-floods-as-redcross-offers-support/
