The Kenya Meteorological Department has forecasted continued rainfall across most parts of the country this week, with some areas expected to experience isolated heavy downpours. In its latest weather outlook for March 25-31, the department noted that regions such as the highlands east and west of the Rift Valley, the Lake Victoria Basin, the Rift Valley, the Southeastern lowlands, and parts of Northeastern Kenya would experience significant rainfall events.
According to the forecast, daytime temperatures are expected to rise to 30°C in Coastal, Northeastern, and Northwestern Kenya, while nighttime temperatures could drop to 10°C in the Central Highlands and Central Rift Valley. These fluctuations highlight the dynamic weather patterns expected in the coming days.
The Kenya Met had earlier announced that the March-April-May (MAM) long rains had begun in some regions, with other areas set to experience the onset soon. The department noted that the onset would be marked by at least 20mm of rainfall over three consecutive days, ensuring a steady transition into the rainy season. For the Northern part of the country, the threshold for onset is 10mm over three consecutive days.
Between March 10 and March 16, the long rains commenced in the highlands west of the Rift Valley, the Lake Victoria Basin, parts of the Rift Valley, Nairobi, the highlands east of the Rift Valley, the Southeastern lowlands, and Isiolo County. The Southeastern lowlands and parts of Northeastern Kenya recorded increased rainfall from March 3 to March 9, a trend expected to continue into the current week.
The onset of rains in the remaining parts of the highlands east of the Rift Valley and the Southeastern lowlands is anticipated this week, while the Northeastern region is expected to experience rainfall between March 25 and March 31. However, this may be followed by dry spells.
Meanwhile, the Northwestern and coastal regions are expected to receive occasional rainfall during the rest of March, though it may not meet the threshold for a full onset of the rainy season. The peak of the season in coastal areas is projected for May, with the onset in April.
Residents are advised to stay informed and take necessary precautions, especially in areas prone to flooding and landslides. Authorities continue to monitor weather patterns to provide timely updates and advisories.
