Heavy rainfall, strong winds to continue

The Kenya Meteorological Department is warning that heavy rainfall currently pounding several parts of the country will continue until Saturday.

In an advisory, the Weatherman says heavy downpour above 40mm in 24 hours is predicted to spread to northern parts of the country from Thursday to the weekend.

Among the areas expected to receive heavy rainfall include the counties of; Nandi, Kericho, Bomet, Kakamega, Vihiga, Bungoma, Narok, Baringo, Nakuru, TransNzoia, Uasin-Gishu, Elgeyo-Marakwet, West-Pokot, Kisumu, Homabay, Siaya, Migori, Busia, Kisii, Nyamira, Nyandarua, Laikipia, Nyeri, Kirinyaga, Murang’a, Kiambu, Meru, Embu, Tharaka-Nithi, Nairobi, Machakos, Kitui, Makueni, Kajiado, Turkana, Samburu, Marsabit, Mandera, Wajir, Garissa and Isiolo Counties.

The warning sent by the Director of Meteorological Services Dr. David Gikungu further indicates that strong southerly winds of more than 30 knots are predicted over the coastal region and parts of Northeastern Kenya.

The strong winds are projected to exceed 40 knots. “Large Ocean Waves more than 2 meters are predicted in the Indian Ocean from Thursday to Sunday.”

Among the areas expected to experience strong winds include the counties of; Mombasa, Tana-River, Kilifi, Lamu, Kwale, Taita-Taveta and Garissa counties.

Dr. Gikungu in the statement is urging the public in all the areas mentioned 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,” says Dr. Gikungu and adds, “People are advised to avoid driving through, or walking in moving water.”

He is further warning the public from walking in open fields, “and not to shelter under trees and near metal grilled windows in order to minimize exposure to lightning strikes.”

The weatherman is urging the public in areas prone to landslides and mudslides to remain vigilant “Strong winds may blow off roofs, uproot trees and cause structural damages,” adds Dr. Gikungu in the statement.

Additionally, he is cautioning those involved in marine activities along the coastal strip to be vigilant as the strong southerly winds may result in large waves that could pose a danger.