- Kenya Meteorological Department forecasts rain between October 16 and 23 across 40 counties, including Nairobi, Kisumu and Mombasa
- Isolated storms may occur, with rainfall amounts varying across locations as the country experiences the short rains season associated with the evolving El Niño conditions
- The seasonal outlook warns of possible heavy downpours, flooding and landslides
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The Kenya Meteorological Department has forecast rainfall across 40 counties over the next seven days, warning that some areas could experience isolated storms.
Source: UGC
In its weekly forecast covering Friday, October 16, to Friday, October 23, the department said rain was expected across much of western Kenya, the Rift Valley, Central Kenya and parts of the Coast and eastern regions.
Counties expected to receive rainfall include Kakamega, Vihiga, Busia, Bungoma, Kisumu, Kisii, Nyamira, Migori, Siaya, Homa Bay, Kericho, Nandi, Bomet, Nakuru, Elgeyo-Marakwet, West Pokot, Baringo, Uasin Gishu, Trans Nzoia, Nyeri, Murang'a, Kirinyaga, Embu, Meru, Kiambu, Tharaka Nithi, Laikipia and Nyandarua.
Rain is also expected in parts of Machakos, Kitui, Makueni, Kajiado, Narok, Nairobi, Garissa, Tana River, Lamu, Kilifi, Mombasa and Kwale counties.
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The department cautioned that rainfall distribution would vary across the affected areas, with isolated storms possible in some locations.
El Niño rains raise flood concerns
The weekly forecast comes as Kenya prepares for an enhanced October-November-December short rains season, with the meteorological department projecting above-average rainfall across much of the country.
El Niño is a climate phenomenon associated with unusually warm sea surface temperatures in the central and eastern tropical Pacific Ocean. It can influence rainfall patterns in East Africa, although its effects vary depending on other climate conditions, including the Indian Ocean Dipole.
The expected rains could replenish water sources, support farming and improve pasture availability. However, prolonged downpours may also trigger flash floods, waterlogging, landslides and transport disruptions in vulnerable areas.
Residents are encouraged to monitor official weather updates, avoid crossing flooded rivers and roads, and take precautions in areas prone to flooding and landslides.
Source: TUKO.co.ke