• The Met Department cautions that floodwaters may appear in regions where heavy rainfall has not occurred, particularly downstream.

The Kenya Metrological Department has announced that heavy rainfall in various parts of the country will intensify between April 15 and 18, 2024.

According to David Gikungu, the Director of the Met Department, the affected regions include the Lake Victoria Basin, the Rift Valley, the Highlands West and East of the Rift Valley, the Nairobi area, the Southeastern Lowlands, and the South Coast.

Director Gikungu further revealed that the heavy rainfall is predicted to exceed 50mm within 24 hours along the coastal areas, accompanied by gusty winds, large ocean waves, and strong southerly winds in the Southeastern region.

Counties expected to face the risk of flash floods include Kisumu, Homabay, Siaya, Migori, Busia, Kisii, Nyamira, Nandi, Kericho, Bomet, Kakamega, Vihiga, Bungoma, Narok, Baringo, Nakuru, and Trans-Nzoia.

Additional counties at risk are Uasin-Gishu, Elgeyo-Marakwet, West-Pokot, Nyandarua, Laikipia, Nyeri, Kirinyaga, Murang’a, Kiambu, Meru, Embu, Tharaka-Nithi, Nairobi, Machakos, Kitui, Makueni, Kajiado, Taita-Taveta, Mombasa, Tana River, Kilifi, Lamu, Kwale, Marsabit, Garissa, and Isiolo.

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Residents in all the mentioned areas are advised to remain vigilant for potential floods and reduced visibility. The Met Department cautions that floodwaters may appear in regions where heavy rainfall has not occurred, particularly downstream.

Therefore, individuals are urged to avoid driving or walking in moving water or open fields and to refrain from seeking shelter under trees or near grilled windows to minimize the risk of lightning strikes.

Furthermore, the Met Department warns that strong winds accompanying heavy rainfall may result in roof damage, uprooted trees, and structural harm. Large waves are also expected to affect marine activities.