Met: Expect rainfall across many parts of Kenya! The Kenya Meteorological Department has forecasted continued rainfall of varying intensity in many parts of the country over the week from November 19 to 25. Affected regions include the Central Highlands, Western Kenya, Lake Victoria Basin, Rift Valley, Southeastern Lowlands, Coast, Northwestern, and Northeastern Kenya.
Regions Anticipated to Receive Rain
Counties expected to receive significant rainfall include Kisii, Nyamira, Nandi, Kericho, Bomet, Kakamega, Vihiga, Bungoma, Siaya, Kisumu, Homabay, Busia, and Migori. In these regions, morning rains will be followed by afternoon and night showers, often accompanied by thunderstorms.
Similarly, counties in the Rift Valley, such as Narok, Baringo, Nakuru, Trans-Nzoia, Uasin Gishu, Elgeyo Marakwet, and West Pokot, are likely to experience a similar weather pattern.
Isolated heavy rains, with accumulations of 20-50mm, are particularly likely in the Central Highlands, parts of the Rift Valley, and Western Kenya.
“Some areas could experience intense rainfall, leading to localized flooding. Stay prepared,” cautioned Kennedy Thiong’o, Director of Meteorological Services.
Weather in the Southeastern Lowlands and Coastal Regions
The Southeastern Lowlands, which include Machakos, Kitui, Makueni, Kajiado, and Taita-Taveta counties, will see morning rains followed by afternoon and night showers. This pattern will also extend to inland parts of Tana River County.
In coastal counties such as Mombasa, Kilifi, Lamu, and Kwale, as well as parts of Tana River, showers will occur throughout the day. This aligns with the general pattern of intermittent rainfall anticipated during the forecast period.
Temperature Extremes Across Kenya
Daytime Heat in the Coastal, Northeastern, and Northwestern Regions
Despite the rains, some regions are expected to experience high daytime temperatures. Northeastern and Northwestern counties, including Marsabit, Mandera, Wajir, Garissa, and Isiolo, will have temperatures exceeding 30°C. Lodwar and Wajir will record the highest daytime temperatures at 37°C, followed by Mandera at 35°C. Coastal towns like Voi and Lamu will see highs of 34°C, while Mombasa, Malindi, and Mtwapa are expected to reach 33°C.
Nighttime Chill in Highlands and Southeastern Regions
In contrast, nighttime temperatures will drop significantly in parts of the Highlands East of the Rift Valley, the Central Rift Valley, and the Southeastern Lowlands. Counties such as Narok, Nyandarua, Laikipia, Nyeri, Kirinyaga, Murang’a, Kiambu, Meru, Embu, Tharaka-Nithi, and Nairobi will see temperatures dipping below 10°C.
This chilly weather will also extend to Machakos, Kitui, Makueni, Kajiado, Taita-Taveta, and the inland areas of Tana River County, following the daytime rains and showers.
Safety Measures and Recommendations
With localized flooding anticipated in areas of intense rainfall, residents are advised to stay vigilant and take necessary precautions. Farmers should plan their activities accordingly, and motorists are urged to exercise caution on wet roads.
Kennedy Thiong’o reiterated the need for preparedness, particularly in flood-prone regions. “Local authorities and emergency services should be on high alert to mitigate the impact of heavy rains,” he said.
Conclusion
The week ahead presents a mix of weather conditions for Kenya, ranging from heavy rains and thunderstorms to scorching daytime heat and chilly nights.
The Kenya Meteorological Department’s forecast highlights the importance of staying informed and prepared to navigate these varying weather patterns effectively. Residents across the country are encouraged to monitor updates and take proactive measures to ensure safety and comfort.
