Met boss says heavy rainfall to last longer in four regions

By , K24 Digital
On Tue, 21 Apr, 2020 08:44 | < 1 min read
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Residents of Chesogon and security officers at an area where a mudslide killed 12 people and left thousands homeless. PD/JIMMY GITAKA
Residents of Chesogon and security officers at an area where a mudslide killed 12 people and left thousands homeless. PD/JIMMY GITAKA

The ongoing heavy rains will continue pounding most parts of the country, the Meteorological Department has projected.

The department warned Kenyans living in mudslide prone areas to move to safer grounds.

Director Stella Aura said Western, Central, Nairobi and Coast regions will receive rain of more than 30mm in 24 hours.

In the latest weather report issued last evening, Aura said counties expecting heavy rainfall include Siaya, Kisumu, Homa Bay, Migori, Kisii, Nyamira, Trans Nzoia, Baringo, Uasin Gishu, Elgeyo-Marakwet, Nandi, Laikipia, Nakuru, Narok, Kericho, Bomet, Kakamega, Vihiga, Bungoma and Busia.

However, Aura said rainfall amounts may reduce as the forecast period progresses.

“In the Lake Victoria Basin, morning rains are likely to occur over a few places in that area tomorrow and Thursday, while the rest of the mornings are likely to be sunny, paving way for afternoon showers and thunderstorms,” she added.

Be on lookout Aura urged residents in areas affected by heavy rains to be on the lookout for potential flash floods.

“Residents are advised to avoid driving through, walking in moving water or open fields or sheltering under trees and near grilled windows to minimise exposure to lightning strikes,” she said.

Aura said the heavy rains, large waves and strong winds offshore may result in storm surges along the Coast, and advised fishermen and other people in the marine industry to be on high alert.

She said those in landslide-prone areas, especially over the slopes of the Aberdares Ranges, Mount Kenya and other hilly areas over the Western region, should be vigilant.