Kenya MET: Brace for heavy downpour in the next week

Nairobians take shelter from heavy downpour along Kenyatta Avenue. [Boniface Okendo, Standard]

You will need to brace for heavy downpour in the next week, the Kenya Meteorological Department has warned.

Heavy rainfall is expected in most parts of the country in the next seven days, coupled with increased morning showers.

“However, rainfall amounts and coverage are likely to reduce as the forecast period progresses,” Met said in a statement on Monday.

Areas in the Northwest and the Northeast are likely to experience strong south-easterly winds.

The effects of heavy rains are already being felt in parts of the country as roads have been rendered impassable.Traders and customers have been forced to seek alternative means to access their businesses.

Heavy downpour makes roads inaccessible at Gikomba market. [Denish Ochieng, Standard]

Floods are likely to be experienced in Nyando, Budalang’i and Nyatike, while there is a likelihood of mudslides in Murang’a, West Pokot and Elgeyo Marakwet.

Last week, the government urged farmers to take advantage of the rains and plant more crops.

Nyanza, Western, Central and parts of Rift Valley and Eastern regions are likely to receive above average rainfall. 

“Let them take advantage of the rainfall and increase crop acreage,” Government Spokesperson Cyrus Oguna said.

Oguna also stated that close to 1.4 million Kenyans are facing starvation, and the number is likely to increase if the expected rainfall is not enough.