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Kenya on alert as tropical storm IALY approaches southwest Indian Ocean

A flooded section of Ring Road Ngara in Starehe Constituency, Nairobi, is pictured on April 21, 2024, following heavy rains the previous night. (Photo: Justine Ondieki)

By Hanifa Adan | Monday, May 20, 2024

Kenya Met advised residents in the selected areas to prepare for potential flooding and disruptions.

The Kenya Meteorological Department (KMD) has issued a detailed update on Tropical Storm IALY, which is currently positioned over the southwest Indian Ocean.

According to Kenya Met, the storm is expected to significantly influence weather patterns in various parts of the country, bringing enhanced rainfall, large ocean waves, and strong winds.

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Tropical Storm IALY is projected to intensify rainfall across the western half of Kenya and regions within the Highlands East of the Rift Valley, which includes Nairobi. This surge in rainfall is likely to impact agriculture, water resources, and daily activities in these areas.

Kenya Met advised residents in the selected areas to prepare for potential flooding and disruptions.

Marine and Wind Impacts

The storm is generating substantial waves over the Indian Ocean, posing risks to marine activities and coastal regions.

In addition, strong southerly winds are expected to sweep through the eastern sector of Kenya. These winds, coupled with heavy rainfall occasionally extending inland from the coast, may lead to hazardous conditions, including possible damage to structures and vegetation.

The Meteorological Department adds that cyclones, by the laws of physics, cannot approach within approximately 480 kilometres (or 5 degrees) of the equator due to the Coriolis effect.

This natural phenomenon prevents cyclonic systems from forming or moving close to the equator, as the necessary rotational forces are too weak. Consequently, while Tropical Storm IALY poses significant weather challenges, its core will remain a safe distance from the equatorial region of Kenya.

This comes a day after The Kenya Meteorological Department (Met) warned of heavy rainfall, strong winds, and large waves in several parts of the country, even as the March-May long rain season nears its end.

The weatherman said the heavy rainfall of more than 30mm in 24 hours experienced in the Lake Victoria Basin, the Rift Valley, and the highlands west and east of the Rift Valley, including the Nairobi area, was expected to continue.

Kenya Meteorological Department emphasised its commitment to closely monitoring the development and trajectory of Tropical Storm IALY. Regular updates will be provided to keep the public informed and ensure preparedness.

It also encouraged relevant authorities and residents to stay vigilant and heed any advisories issued within the week.