Chilly Weather Expected to Persist Across Several Regions in Kenya

The Kenya Meteorological Department has issued a weather forecast indicating that chilly weather conditions are set to continue in various parts of the country from August 27 to September 2, 2024. This forecast, which covers regions such as the Central Highlands, Western Kenya, the Rift Valley, and South-eastern Kenya, highlights a period of intermittent cold and cloudy conditions, coupled with isolated rainfall in some areas.

Cold Weather and Rainfall to Dominate

According to the meteorological department, the cold weather will be most pronounced in the Central Highlands, Western Kenya, Rift Valley, and South-eastern regions. The department has warned that these areas will experience low night-time temperatures, with some places in the Central Highlands, Rift Valley, and South-eastern lowlands recording temperatures below 10°C. Despite the chilly nights, daytime temperatures in certain regions, particularly the Coast, North-eastern, and North-western Kenya, are expected to rise above 30°C, creating a stark contrast between day and night conditions.

Rainfall is anticipated at the start of the forecast period, affecting parts of Western Kenya, the Central Highlands, Rift Valley, Coast, and North-eastern Kenya. This rain, although isolated, will bring some relief to areas that have been experiencing dry conditions.

Regional Weather Breakdown

The weather forecast provides a detailed breakdown of expected conditions in different regions across Kenya:

Highlands West of the Rift Valley, Lake Victoria Basin, and the Rift Valley:
- These regions will experience morning rains over a few areas, followed by sunny intervals. Afternoon showers and thunderstorms are expected in some locations, with occasional showers continuing into the night. Maximum daytime temperatures will range between 28°C and 30°C, while nighttime lows could drop to between 7°C and 9°C.
- Affected counties include Siaya, Kisumu, Homa Bay, Migori, Kisii, Nyamira, Trans Nzoia, Baringo, Uasin Gishu, Elgeyo-Marakwet, Nandi, Nakuru, Narok, Kericho, Bomet, Kakamega, Vihiga, Bungoma, Busia, and West Pokot.
North-Western Kenya (Turkana and Samburu Counties):
- Residents in these areas can expect sunny intervals during the mornings and afternoons, with showers in some places at night. Daytime temperatures will peak between 34°C and 35°C, while nighttime lows will range from 13°C to 16°C.
Highlands East of the Rift Valley (including Nairobi County):
- The mornings in this region will be cloudy with light rains, gradually clearing to sunny intervals as the day progresses. Afternoons and nights will see showers in some areas. Daytime temperatures are expected to be between 24°C and 25°C, with nighttime lows ranging from 10°C to 11°C.
- Affected areas include Nyandarua, Laikipia, Nyeri, Kirinyaga, Murang’a, Kiambu, Meru, Embu, Tharaka, and Nairobi Counties.
North-Eastern Kenya (Marsabit, Mandera, Wajir, Garissa, and Isiolo Counties):
- These regions will experience rain in some places during the mornings, followed by sunny intervals. Showers are expected in the afternoons and nights, with temperatures ranging from 34°C to 35°C during the day and 15°C to 16°C at night.
Southeastern Lowlands (Kitui, Makueni, Machakos, Kajiado, and Taita Taveta Counties):
- Cloudy mornings will give way to sunny intervals, with the possibility of showers in some areas. Maximum temperatures will reach up to 31°C, with nighttime lows between 9°C and 12°C.
Coastal Region (Mombasa, Tana River, Kilifi, Lamu, and Kwale Counties):
- This region will experience morning and afternoon showers, followed by sunny intervals. Nighttime conditions will include a chance of showers and partly cloudy skies. Daytime temperatures will range between 31°C and 32°C, with nighttime lows between 21°C and 23°C.

Conclusion

The Kenya Meteorological Department’s forecast underscores the variability in weather conditions across different parts of the country. As the chilly weather continues, residents in affected areas are advised to dress warmly, particularly during the night when temperatures are expected to drop significantly. Meanwhile, those in regions expecting high daytime temperatures should take precautions against heat exposure. The forecasted rains, although scattered, will provide much-needed relief in some areas, contributing to water supply and agriculture.

As always, it is important for Kenyans to stay updated with the latest weather advisories from the meteorological department to make informed decisions and remain safe during this period.