Unpredictable Weather Ahead: Cold, Cloudy, and Rainy Conditions Expected Across Kenya

Kenya is bracing for a week of fluctuating weather conditions as the Kenya Meteorological Department has issued a five-day forecast predicting cold, cloudy, and rainy weather across various regions. The forecast, which spans from Saturday, August 31, to Wednesday, September 3, 2024, warns residents to prepare for significant temperature variations and intermittent rain, particularly in the Highlands East and West of the Rift Valley.

Starting on Saturday, the forecast predicts scattered showers in regions including Nairobi, Kiambu, and the Highlands, which encompass counties such as Nyandarua, Laikipia, Nyeri, Kirinyaga, Murang’a, Meru, Embu, and Tharaka. As the weekend unfolds, the weather is expected to remain cloudy in the mornings, with the possibility of showers in the afternoons and nights on both Sunday and Monday. This pattern of intermittent rain and overcast skies will persist, making it essential for residents to stay alert and prepared for sudden weather changes.

As the week progresses, the weather is set to take a turn for the wetter. On Tuesday and Wednesday, significant rainfall is expected, which could disrupt daily activities and affect travel plans. The forecasted temperatures for these regions will vary widely, ranging from a chilly 5°C to a more moderate 29°C. This sharp contrast in temperatures will likely create discomfort, especially during early mornings and late evenings when the cold is most pronounced.

David Gikungu, Director of the Kenya Meteorological Department, emphasized the need for caution, particularly for those living in the Highlands East and West of the Rift Valley, the South-eastern lowlands, and the Rift Valley itself. He highlighted the expected cold and cloudy conditions, urging residents to prepare accordingly.

In the South-eastern lowlands, which include Kitui, Makueni, Machakos, Kajiado, and Taita Taveta, the weather is expected to be somewhat more varied. While these regions will experience sunny intervals, particularly during the daytime, the nights will be marked by cloudy conditions. The temperatures here will also fluctuate, with lows of 9°C on Tuesday and highs of up to 30°C on Monday and Tuesday. This range provides a brief respite from the cooler temperatures predicted elsewhere, but residents should still be prepared for sudden changes in weather, particularly at night.

The Highlands West of the Rift Valley, covering counties such as Siaya, Kisumu, Homabay, Migori, Kisii, and Nyamira, will not escape the wet weather either. The forecast indicates that these regions will experience rainfall throughout the weekend, with showers and thunderstorms likely in the afternoons and nights from Saturday to Wednesday. Temperatures in these areas will vary significantly, with lows of 9°C and highs reaching up to 33°C on Sunday, adding another layer of unpredictability to the week’s weather.

Along the Coast, including Mombasa, Tana River, Kilifi, Lamu, and Kwale, residents should also prepare for a similarly wet week. The forecast predicts showers on Saturday morning and afternoon, followed by cloudy skies at night. Sunday morning may offer brief sunny intervals, but rain is expected to return in the afternoon and persist into the night. From Monday to Wednesday, continuous showers are anticipated throughout the day and night, with temperatures ranging from 21°C to 30°C. This consistent pattern of wet weather is likely to affect outdoor activities and travel plans for those along the coast.

In summary, the upcoming week’s weather forecast calls for vigilance and preparation across Kenya, with cold, cloudy, and rainy conditions expected in many regions. From the Highlands to the Coast, residents should brace for fluctuating temperatures and intermittent rain, making it crucial to stay updated with the latest weather information to navigate the unpredictable conditions safely.