The Kenya Meteorological Department has announced that rainfall is expected to be slightly depressed in the first half of April but enhanced towards the end. In a statement issued Thursday, the weatherman says that the public should also brace for occasional afternoon and evening storms across the country as the March-April-May (MAM) rainfall season continues.
The advisory comes after severe storms, with heavy downpours exceeding 100 mm in 24 hours, were experienced in many stations in the month of March.
Rainfall Distribution:
- Nairobi County – near-average rainfall.
- Highlands East & West of the Rift Valley, Lake Victoria Basin, Rift Valley, and parts of North-western Kenya – near-average rainfall.
- Northern counties (Marsabit, Wajir, Mandera) – rainfall likely above the long-term average. However, several parts of Marsabit, Wajir, Garissa, and Isiolo are expected to receive near- to below-average rainfall. Occasional storms are also likely.
- South-eastern lowlands (Machakos, Kitui, Makueni, Kajiado, Taita Taveta, inland Tana River) – near- to below-average rainfall.
- Coastal region – below-average rainfall.
Kenya Met Advisories:
With the widespread flooding witnessed across the country in March, the weatherman now warns communities in flood-prone zones to clear drainage channels and exercise caution near rivers and low-lying areas. “Monitor for risks of flash floods, soil erosion, and landslides during heavy rainfall events,” the statement further read.
For ASAL counties like Marsabit and Mandera, which are expected to receive above-average rainfall in April, Kenya Met has advised communities to continue harvesting water to alleviate the adverse effects of drought.
Kenya Met further states that April will mark the peak of the March-April-May rainfall season, characterized by heavy rainfall events nationwide.
Widespread floods from the March onset rainfall have so far claimed 110 lives, according to the National Police Service (NPS). “Coordinated response efforts remain active to enhance safety and provide assistance,” NPS said.
