Kenya is experiencing an unusually cold September, with the Kenya Meteorological Department predicting that the chilly weather will persist throughout the month. Traditionally, September in Kenya is known for its mild and warm conditions, ideal for outdoor activities. However, this year’s weather has deviated from the norm, leaving many wondering why temperatures have dropped and rains have become more frequent.
According to Kenya Meteorological Department Director David Gikungu, the cold spell is attributed to a combination of factors, including heavy rains in Ethiopia and broader climate change impacts. Gikungu explained in an interview that the sun’s current position and changing climatic patterns are contributing significantly to the unusual weather in Kenya.
“The month of September has normally been one that you can pick any day for an outdoor event and you will be fine weather-wise, but that is not the case now,” said Gikungu. He pointed out that heavy rains in Ethiopia during this season have influenced Kenya’s weather patterns, particularly in the western regions.
The Influence of Ethiopian Rains
Ethiopia has experienced substantial rainfall recently, which has a knock-on effect on Kenya’s climate. As the sun moves southward, it becomes overhead at the Equator, which occurs around this time of year. This positioning of the sun is typically followed by a cloud bunch, leading to increased cloud cover and rainfall in parts of western Kenya. This cloud cover prevents the sun’s heat from reaching the ground effectively, resulting in cooler temperatures.
“With the cloud bunch, it means we cannot have intensive heat from the sun,” Gikungu noted. This phenomenon, combined with other climatic variations, is causing the unusual weather in Kenya.
Climate Change: A Major Factor
Gikungu also highlighted the broader issue of climate change, which has caused significant shifts in global weather patterns. “That is why people are talking about climate change. It is a departure from what we call normal or average [temperature],” he explained. Climate change has made weather patterns less predictable, leading to unexpected conditions like the current cold spell.
The Kenya Meteorological Department has forecasted that most parts of the country will experience cold and rainy weather for the majority of September. Areas expected to receive moderate to heavy rains include the Highland East, which encompasses Nairobi, the west of Rift Valley, Lake Victoria basin, Rift Valley, and the Coastal region. Morning hours in these areas are likely to be very cloudy and cold.
Regions Affected by the Cold Spell
The forecast specifically mentions several counties that are set to experience very cloudy and cold conditions. These include Nyandarua, Laikipia, Nyeri, Kirinyaga, Murang’a, Kiambu, Meru, Embu, Tharaka-Nithi, and Nairobi. Similarly, counties such as Kisii, Nyamira, Nandi, Kericho, Bomet, Kakamega, Vihiga, Bungoma, Siaya, and Kisumu will also face similar weather conditions, with increased cloud cover and lower temperatures.
Preparing for the Cold
As the unusual weather persists, it is important for residents to prepare for colder conditions. This could involve adjusting daily routines, especially for those in agriculture or outdoor work, to accommodate the cooler and wetter conditions. The Kenya Meteorological Department advises the public to stay updated with regular weather forecasts and plan accordingly to mitigate the impacts of the cold spell.
Conclusion
The unusually cold September in Kenya serves as a reminder of the broader impacts of climate change and the importance of understanding how weather patterns can shift unexpectedly. With predictions of continued cool and rainy conditions throughout the month, it is crucial for Kenyans to adapt and remain vigilant to any further updates from the meteorological department.
