The Kenya Meteorological Department has issued a heavy rainfall alert for Central and Southeastern Kenya, set to commence on Thursday, November 14, 2024. The advisory spans from 3:00 p.m. on Thursday through Friday, November 15, 2024, at 9:00 p.m., urging residents to prepare for intensified rainfall that could lead to flash floods, landslides, and other safety concerns.
According to MET’s forecast, the expected rainfall, while classified as low to moderate in severity, will likely impact vast areas across the southeastern lowlands and central regions, including Nairobi. This rainfall alert, with a moderate likelihood of occurrence (33% to 66%), could bring over 20mm within 24 hours on Thursday, intensifying to more than 30mm within 24 hours on Friday.
Areas to Expect Heavy Rains
The forecast highlights a range of counties that will likely experience significant rainfall. These include Meru, Embu, Tharaka Nithi, Kirinyaga, Murang’a, Nyeri, Kiambu, Nyandarua, Laikipia, Isiolo, Nakuru, Kericho, Bomet, Narok, parts of Kajiado, Nairobi, Machakos, Kitui, and Makueni. The meteorological department has urged residents across these regions to be on high alert for potential flash floods, particularly those residing near riverbanks, downstream areas, and low-lying zones where water levels can increase suddenly due to upstream rainfall.
Although the rainfall is expected to be widespread, MET anticipates that the intensity will taper off by Saturday, November 16, 2024, as conditions stabilize. The heaviest rainfall, however, is forecasted to impact central and southeastern parts, with urban areas like Nairobi anticipated to experience localized flooding. Additionally, landslide risks may rise for residents around mountainous regions such as the Aberdare Ranges, Mt. Kenya, and other hilly zones.
Safety Precautions Issued by MET
The Kenya Meteorological Department has outlined critical safety precautions to mitigate risks associated with the anticipated heavy rains. Residents are advised to avoid driving or walking through moving water, as flash floods can be deceptive, with even shallow depths posing a significant danger to vehicles and pedestrians.
In response to the threat of lightning strikes, MET advises against taking shelter under trees or near grilled windows during the storm, as lightning can be particularly dangerous in areas exposed to metal or towering objects. This advisory, therefore, highlights the importance of seeking shelter in safe structures and avoiding actions that could expose individuals to risk during the storm.
Focus on Landslide-Prone Areas
A specific focus has been placed on landslide-prone areas, notably around the Aberdare Ranges and Mt. Kenya, where saturated soils and steep slopes can trigger landslides, endangering nearby communities. The MET department emphasizes that these regions are at elevated risk of landslides as rain persists, especially with increased saturation levels from Thursday and Friday’s rainfall. Residents in these areas are urged to be especially vigilant and consider relocating if they reside in zones previously affected by landslides or identified as high-risk by local authorities.
Key Government Bodies Notified
The meteorological advisory has been addressed to essential government bodies, including the Presidency, the Ministry of Environment, Climate Change and Forestry, the State Department for Environment and Climate Change, and agencies such as the Kenya Red Cross, National Disaster Operations Centre, and Kenya Airports Authority. These organizations are expected to mobilize resources and prepare to respond to potential emergencies, particularly in high-risk areas.
Community Preparedness and Response
This advance notice from MET allows residents in affected regions to take essential precautions, ensuring that communities and households are prepared for the heavy rain event. Households are advised to clear drainage channels around their properties, have an emergency plan in place, and stay updated on weather forecasts to better respond to any arising situations. Additionally, MET’s guidance on the dangers of flash floods and landslides is a call to local authorities to enhance community awareness and readiness to minimize the adverse impacts of the anticipated weather.
In the event of an emergency, residents should contact local authorities or disaster management agencies, including the Kenya Red Cross and National Disaster Operations Centre, who will be on standby to assist. Additionally, emergency contact numbers should be readily available for immediate communication with support agencies.
Conclusion
The MET department’s proactive alert serves as a crucial reminder of the importance of preparedness in the face of extreme weather events. By taking the necessary precautions and adhering to safety guidelines, residents can significantly reduce the risk of harm. As Kenya braces for heavy rains in the coming days, awareness and vigilance remain essential, particularly in vulnerable areas where flash floods and landslides could present significant threats.
