The Following Regions To Experience Floods And Landslide This Month, Kenya Met Warns

The Kenya Meteorological Department has issued a crucial warning regarding the heightened risk of floods and landslides in various regions across the country, as a result of the enhanced rainfall expected throughout the month.

According to the latest monthly weather forecast, several counties and geographical zones are likely to experience significant weather-related hazards, necessitating vigilance and precautionary measures by both authorities and the general public.

The forecast specifically highlights six key regions as being particularly vulnerable to flash floods and riverine floods. These include the Highlands East of the Rift Valley, Nairobi County, the Lake Victoria Basin, the South Rift, the Southeastern Lowlands, and the low-lying areas of northern Kenya.

The Meteorological Department has pointed out that these areas, especially those with inadequate drainage infrastructure, are likely to experience a surge in water levels, leading to widespread disruptions.

Additionally, the Highlands both East and West of the Rift Valley are at an even greater risk of landslides due to the continuous heavy downpours expected in these regions.

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The persistent rainfall may loosen soil and trigger hazardous ground movements, particularly in hilly and mountainous areas where past occurrences of landslides have caused devastation.

The Kenya Meteorological Department has therefore urged members of the public to exercise utmost caution and avoid crossing, driving, or cycling near moving water bodies.

Even seemingly shallow floodwaters can be deceptive and pose a significant risk to human life and property. Those living in flood-prone areas have been encouraged to relocate to safer grounds where possible, in order to mitigate the impact of potential flooding events.

“There is a possibility of isolated storms occurring, which could result in flash and riverine floods in poorly drained urban centres and along riverbanks,” the department stated in its advisory.

Motorists have also been advised to exercise caution, especially on days characterized by heavy rainfall. Roads are expected to become dangerously slippery, reducing vehicle traction and increasing the likelihood of accidents.

Furthermore, poor visibility during downpours could pose an additional risk for drivers, making careful navigation and reduced speeds crucial during such periods.

Beyond the immediate risks of floods and landslides, the weatherman has also pointed to potential environmental concerns associated with the expected heavy rainfall.

Areas receiving near or above-average rainfall may experience cases of land degradation and soil erosion, which could have long-term consequences for agriculture and infrastructure. To counteract these effects, the department has urged the public to take proactive steps such as tree planting to expand forest cover and enhance soil stability.

Residents in specific counties, including Kisii, Kisumu, Nandi, Kakamega, Narok, and Bungoma, have been strongly cautioned against seeking shelter under trees or near metallic structures during thunderstorms.

These areas are expected to experience increased incidents of lightning strikes, posing a significant threat to individuals caught in the open during stormy conditions.

In addition to the physical hazards posed by extreme weather events, the forecast also raises concerns about public health. The expected near-to-above-average rainfall in the Lake Victoria Basin is likely to create favorable conditions for the spread of waterborne and vector-borne diseases.

Stagnant water, combined with warmer-than-average temperatures, could provide ideal breeding grounds for mosquitoes, thereby increasing the risk of malaria outbreaks. Other waterborne diseases such as cholera and typhoid could also see a rise in incidence due to contamination of drinking water sources.

“There may be an increase in water- and vector-borne diseases in areas that are expected to receive near to above average rainfall, especially over the Lake Victoria Basin, as stagnant water coupled with warmer-than-average temperatures are likely to provide breeding grounds for mosquitoes and other pathogens,” the department noted.

The advisory also includes crucial guidance for farmers, particularly those in the Highlands West and East of the Rift Valley, the Lake Victoria Basin, the Central and South Rift Valley, and the Southeastern Lowlands.

The Meteorological Department has encouraged farmers to take full advantage of the rains by collaborating with agricultural experts to optimize their farming activities. Proper timing of planting and the use of rain-fed irrigation could significantly improve food production, contributing to national food security.

For pastoral communities in Northern Kenya, the weatherman has delivered some positive news: the expected rainfall will rejuvenate pastures, providing much-needed relief for livestock keepers who have been grappling with dry conditions in previous months.

Improved pasture availability will enhance livestock health and productivity, benefiting communities that rely heavily on pastoralism for their livelihoods.

Furthermore, the increase in rainfall is expected to bolster water availability for both domestic and agricultural use. In light of this, the department has emphasized the Importance of adopting rainwater harvesting and storage practices to ensure sustainable water management.

With proper storage, households and institutions can mitigate water scarcity challenges in drier periods.

Additionally, the heavy rains are projected to boost hydropower generation due to increased inflow into hydropower reservoirs. This is expected to contribute positively to the national power grid, potentially reducing power shortages and stabilizing the electricity supply.

The replenishment of groundwater levels could also enhance geothermal power production, further supporting the country’s energy sector.

The Kenya Meteorological Department has reiterated the need for continued vigilance, preparedness, and collaboration among various government agencies, emergency response teams, and local communities.

The public has been urged to stay updated with regular weather forecasts and advisories and to adhere to safety guidelines to minimize risks associated with extreme weather events.

As the country braces for the anticipated heavy rainfall, authorities are also being called upon to ensure that drainage systems are properly maintained and that early warning mechanisms are effectively communicated to vulnerable populations.

The combination of government efforts and individual responsibility will be crucial in navigating the challenges posed by the upcoming rainy season.

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