Kenya Met Announces Heavy Rains to Continue in April

The Kenya Meteorological Department has warned that heavy rains will continue in many parts of the country throughout April.

According to the latest weather update, rainfall will be slightly lower in the first half of the month but is expected to increase as April continues. The department has also warned that flooding may occur in several areas.

Areas Expected to Receive Heavy Rainfall

Regions in the Rift Valley, Lake Victoria Basin, and nearby areas are likely to experience widespread rain. Some places may also receive heavy storms, especially near the borders of Uganda and South Sudan.

Counties located east of the Rift Valley are also expected to receive more rain than usual. These include Nairobi, Nyandarua County, Laikipia County, Kiambu County, and Embu County. These areas may also experience cold weather during the day and occasional storms.

Why the Heavy Rains Are Happening

The weatherman explained that the rains are being caused by the movement of the Intertropical Convergence Zone. This weather system brings moist air from the Indian Ocean and the Congo region, leading to increased rainfall across Kenya, especially in central and western areas.

Other Regions and Rainfall Patterns

Some parts of northeastern Kenya, such as Marsabit County, Wajir County, and Mandera County, may receive above-average rainfall.

However, the coastal region is expected to get less rain than usual.

Other areas, including western Kenya, Nyanza, central regions, and parts of the Rift Valley, are expected to receive normal rainfall for this period.

Meanwhile, the eastern parts of Turkana County and Samburu County may receive less rainfall. Some areas in Garissa County and Isiolo County are also likely to experience below-normal rainfall, although occasional storms may still occur.

Temperature Outlook

Most parts of the country are expected to experience warm and wet conditions. Daytime temperatures will range between 20°C and 32°C.

Highland areas will remain cooler due to their altitude, while coastal and northeastern regions will experience higher temperatures during the day. Nights will be cooler in the highlands but warmer in the lowland areas.

Flood Warning and Advice

The Kenya Met has warned that flooding seen in March could happen again in April.

Water authorities have been advised to closely monitor river levels and ensure drainage systems are clear to avoid disasters.

Farmers have also been urged to:

Improve drainage in their farms
Clear blocked water channels
Avoid activities that damage wet soil

Transport Disruption Expected

Road agencies have also been warned to prepare for possible damage and disruptions. Heavy rains may affect roads and transport systems in different parts of the country.