If you’re planning outdoor activities this festive season, there’s good news for you. Starting December 26, most parts of Kenya are set to experience sunny and dry conditions. This follows weeks of heavy rainfall that had characterized the season in various regions of the country.
In a seven-day weather outlook issued on December 24, the Kenya Meteorological Department indicated that rainfall would significantly reduce after Boxing Day. However, the transition to sunnier weather will not be immediate for all regions. Parts of Western Kenya, the Central Highlands, Lake Victoria Basin, Central and South Rift Valley, South-Eastern Lowlands, and the Coast may still experience wet conditions at the start of the week.
Regions to Watch
The weatherman has highlighted that the highlands east and west of the Rift Valley, the Lake Victoria Basin, and parts of the Central and South Rift Valley could experience sporadic heavy rains. Similarly, the Southeastern Lowlands and Coastal regions are not entirely out of the woods, with isolated showers still anticipated in some areas.
This comes as Nairobi and its environs experienced rainfall on the eve of Christmas Day, creating a damp start to the celebrations for residents. Many Kenyans, who have traveled upcountry to celebrate the festive season with family and friends, have had to navigate through wet conditions.
Rising Daytime Temperatures
While the rains are expected to ease, daytime temperatures are projected to rise in various parts of the country. The Coast, North-Eastern Kenya, North-Western Kenya, parts of Western Kenya, and the South-Eastern Lowlands are set to experience highs exceeding 30°C.
The Kenya Meteorological Department has advised residents in these regions to take precautions against the heat. “It is important to stay cool, wear light clothing, and keep hydrated,” the department advised, noting the potential risks of prolonged exposure to high temperatures during this transition.
Cool Nights Ahead
While daytime temperatures are on the rise, the nights will remain chilly in some regions. Areas such as the Central Highlands, Central and South Rift Valley, and parts of the Southeastern Lowlands are expected to see temperatures drop below 10°C.
Residents in counties like Nyandarua, Laikipia, Nyeri, Kirinyaga, Murang’a, Kiambu, Meru, Embu, Tharaka, and Nairobi are being urged to prepare for cold evenings. “Bundle up during the chilly nights,” the weatherman cautioned, emphasizing the need for proper clothing to stay warm.
Impact on Festive Celebrations
The easing of rainfall is expected to bring relief to many who had planned outdoor activities during the festive season. Whether it’s family gatherings, picnics, or travel to various destinations, the dry weather will provide a conducive environment for such events.
However, the advisory to remain cautious still stands for those in areas where sporadic showers or cold nights are expected. For farmers and other residents in regions prone to flooding, the reduced rainfall will be a welcome break, offering a chance to assess and recover from the effects of previous downpours.
Looking Ahead
As the country transitions to sunny conditions, the Kenya Meteorological Department urges Kenyans to remain informed through regular weather updates. By staying alert, residents can plan their activities better and ensure safety during this period of fluctuating weather patterns.
For now, as Boxing Day marks the beginning of drier weather, many can look forward to enjoying the rest of the festive season under clearer skies. Whether you’re staying in the city or venturing upcountry, the promise of sunny days is a bright spot for holiday celebrations.
