Kenya Met Sounds Flood Alert for Nairobi and Rift Valley Areas

Kenya's Meteorological Department has issued a comprehensive weather advisory for November 14-15, warning of significant rainfall across multiple regions.

The forecast indicates precipitation exceeding 20mm within 24 hours, beginning Thursday across the Central Rift Valley, Central Kenya, and South East lowlands, including Nairobi. The intensity is expected to escalate to 30mm by Friday, particularly affecting southeastern lowlands and central regions. The advisory encompasses a broad geographical area, with Mombasa, Embu, and Tharaka Nithi among the primary regions of concern. Additional affected areas include Meru, Kirinyaga, Murang'a, Nyeri, Kiambu, Nyandarua, Laikipia, Isiolo, Kericho, Bomet, Narok, and portions of Kajiado and Makueni.

Residents in downstream areas and near seasonal waterways are urged to exercise particular vigilance, as water levels may surge unexpectedly, even in the absence of local rainfall. The department has outlined specific safety measures for the public during this period. Residents are cautioned against traversing moving water, whether by vehicle or on foot, and are advised to avoid open fields. The advisory specifically warns against seeking shelter beneath trees or near grilled windows to reduce the risk of lightning strikes.

Special attention is directed toward inhabitants of landslide-susceptible regions, particularly those residing along the Aberdare ranges, Mt. Kenya, and other elevated territories. This weather alert follows an earlier advisory this week regarding temperature variations across the country. Several regions are cautioned about nighttime temperatures dropping to 10°C, with an anticipated slight increase approaching the weekend. Concurrently, multiple counties, including Siaya, Kisumu, Homabay, and Migori, are warned about elevated daytime temperatures potentially reaching 33°C.

The temperature advisory extends to numerous additional regions, encompassing Kisii, Nyamira, Trans Nzoia, Baringo, Uasin Gishu, Elgeyo-Marakwet, Nandi, Nakuru, and various coastal and northern counties including Mombasa, Tana River, Kilifi, Lamu, Kwale, Marsabit, Mandera, Wajir, and Garissa. The Meteorological Department emphasizes the critical importance of public adherence to these advisories. Residents in affected areas are strongly encouraged to maintain awareness of updated forecasts and implement appropriate precautionary measures to ensure their safety during this period of intense weather activity.