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Weatherman warns of heavy rains, floods in several regions

Kitui Village residents in Kamukunji assess damages caused by flash floods on March 24, 2024. (Photo: The Eastleigh Voice)

By Lucy Mumbi | 02 Apr 2024

Turkana, Marsabit, Mandera, Wajir, Isiolo, Garissa, Tana River, Lamu, Kilifi, Mombasa, and Kwale are, however, expected to experience average daytime temperatures exceeding 30°C.

The Kenya Meteorological Department has warned of heavy downpours and potential flooding in several parts of the country.

In its forecast for April 2 to 8, it says the Central Highlands, Western Kenya, Rift Valley, Southeast Lowlands, Coast, Northeast, and Northwest are expected to receive heavy rainfall.

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“Stay prepared for potential flooding in these areas,” the weatherman said.

Kenyans living in Turkana, Marsabit, Mandera, Wajir, Isiolo, Garissa, Tana River, Lamu, Kilifi, Mombasa, and Kwale were, however, advised to stay hydrated as these regions will experience average daytime temperatures exceeding 30°C.

Additionally, night-time temperatures are expected to remain high, surpassing 25°C, particularly along the coast and in the northeastern region.

Last week, heavy rains pounded Nairobi, resulting in flooding in most areas, including the central business district, Westlands, Eastleigh's 2nd Avenue, and the Nairobi Expressway.

The relentless rain overwhelmed drainage systems, leading to significant flooding on sections of city roads.

More than 8,200 people living in slums in Kamukunji endured cold nights after their homes were swept away by the flash floods and their livelihoods shattered.

Kamukunji Sub-County Commissioner James Kamau said it was one of the worst disasters to have hit the area in recent years.

While many parts of Kamukunji experienced flash floods, the most significant impacts were seen in informal settlement areas along the Nairobi River in Majengo, Kitui Village in Pumwani, Kinyago and Kanuku in California Ward, and Mugunda in Eastleigh South.

Hundreds of people lost everything they owned and were left homeless. The communities, already highly vulnerable to the effects of natural disasters due to their precarious conditions, were disproportionately affected.

The disaster rendered many areas inaccessible and unsafe, disrupting normal life routines, including the ability of children to attend school.

In its advisory, the Kenya Red Cross Society warned residents against walking or driving through flooded waters and asked them to evacuate immediately to elevated areas in case of flooding.

It also urged people to refrain from parking their cars or doing other activities near streams or rivers when it is raining heavily.

“With rains pounding in various parts of Nairobi County, it is crucial to know how to protect yourself and your loved ones from potential flooding hazards. Evacuate immediately to elevated areas in case of flooding because just six inches of moving water can knock you down,” the organisation said.