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Met issues high rainfall alert, warns of flash floods

A view of Madogo-Garissa Road that was recently cut off by floodwaters following heavy rains. (Photo: File/ KeNHA)

By Lucy Mumbi | 26 Feb 2024

Heavy downpours are expected in South Rift Valley, Lake Victoria Basin, the Highlands West and Central Highlands.

The Kenya Meteorological Department has issued a high rainfall alert of more than 20mm in 24 hours, urging the public to prepare for flash floods.

In a statement on Monday, the weatherman noted a moderate probability of occurrence of between 33 to 66 per cent.

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Heavy downpours are expected in South Rift Valley, Lake Victoria Basin, the Highlands West and Central Highlands.

The counties that will be affected are Narok, Nakuru, Bomet, Kericho, Kisii, Nyamira, Migori, Homa Bay, Siaya, Kisumu, Nandi, Vihiga, Kakamega, Busia, Bungoma, Trans Nzoia, West Pokot, Turkana, Marsabit, Uasin Gishu, Kiambu, Nyeri, Murang'a, Nairobi, Machakos, Kajiado and Taita Taveta.

"Residents in all the mentioned areas are advised to be on the lookout for potential floods and flash floods," Met director David Gikungu said.

Gikungu added that the heavy rainfall is likely to spread to the Southeast Lowlands on February 27 and 28, 2024.

"It is likely to reduce in intensity on February 29, 2024. The heavy rainfall is likely to be accompanied by gusty winds," he said.

The Northwestern part is currently experiencing strong southeasterly winds of more than 10 meters per second, which Gikungu said are expected to continue.

He noted that flood waters may appear in places where it has not rained heavily, especially downstream.

Residents in the named counties were urged to avoid driving through or walking in moving water or open fields. They also should not shelter under trees and near grilled windows to minimise exposure to lightning strikes.

"Gusty winds may blow off roofs, uproot trees and cause structural damages. Updates will be provided promptly if there are any changes," Gikungu said.

Most parts of Kenya experience two rain seasons - March to May-long rains and October to December-short rains.