Weatherman raises warning as cold bites

By Nanjinia Wamuswa

Nairobi’s cold ‘July’ season has come earlier than expected and could last until August, with temperatures expected to plunge to as low as 10 degrees centigrade.  

“This time weather genetic systems established fairly early and now the wind we are getting all over Kenya is from the south. And whenever we have systems that align in Southern Africa we get very cold conditions,” said Peter Ambeje, the Kenya Meteorological Department Deputy Director.  

Ambeje said most areas in the Central highlands and Nairobi are expected to experience cool and cloudy conditions with occasional light morning rains or drizzles, and average highs of 17 and lows of 10 degrees.

 The Met also warned that respiratory diseases like asthma, pneumonia and common colds are expected to be on the increase.

“Nairobians, especially the elderly and children, are advised to keep themselves warm especially the elderly and children,” Peter said.

He also warned against the lighting of jikos to heat poorly ventilated rooms as there is the danger of inhaling poisonous gases.

Motorists and pedestrians have also been advised to be on the lookout, especially because of poor visibility and slippery roads when it drizzles.

Parts of the Nairobi-Nakuru highway have particularly been pointed out as likely to experience foggy weather.

Ambenje revealed that the cold season in Nairobi may extend to August.

“But come September there will be warm and dry conditions. However, we will keep monitoring as conditions keep changing.”