The Kenya Meteorological Department has predicted rainfall in several parts of Nairobi County in the coming week.
In a statement on Sunday, March 24, the weather authority indicated that moderate to heavy rainfall is expected in various areas of the city.
"Nairobi City County Rainfall Forecast: Moderate to heavy rainfall likely over several parts of the city," the statement read.
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Additionally, the forecast includes the possibility of rainfall with isolated storms in some regions across the country.
"Rainfall is forecasted across some parts of the country, with isolated storms likely over some areas. Stay updated with Monday and Tuesday's rainfall maps," the weatherman advised.
Nairobi City County Rainfall Forecast: Moderate to heavy rainfall likely over several parts of the city. Stay prepared and stay safe! For more detailed updates, visit https://t.co/NHZNDsKHAW. ☔ #NairobiWeather #RainfallForecast 🌧️ pic.twitter.com/KuIvaocRcP
— Kenya Met Department 🇰🇪 (@MeteoKenya) March 24, 2024
Dryspell over
Up until last week, most parts of the country were experiencing severe sunny and dry conditions.
However, rainfall was expected in the Central Highlands, South-western Kenya, South-eastern lowlands, and the Coast last week.
"Weather Outlook (19-25 March 2024): Most parts of the country are likely to be sunny and dry. However, expect rainfall in the Central Highlands, South-western Kenya, South-eastern lowlands, and the Coast," the weatherman stated.
Moreover, the department highlighted that several areas experienced high average daytime temperatures exceeding 30°C.
These regions include Turkana, Samburu, Marsabit, Mandera, Wajir, Isiolo, Garissa, Tana River, Lamu, Kilifi, Mombasa, Kwale, Taita Taveta, Kajiado, Makueni, Kitui, Nairobi, Laikipia, Baringo, West Pokot, Bungoma, Kakamega, Busia, Vihiga, and Narok.
"High average daytime temperatures (> 30°C) likely in Turkana, Samburu, Marsabit, Mandera, Wajir, Isiolo, Garissa, Tana River, Lamu, Kilifi, Mombasa, Kwale, Taita Taveta, Kajiado, Makueni, Kitui, Nairobi, Laikipia, Baringo, West Pokot, Bungoma, Kakamega, Busia, Vihiga, and Narok," the statement read further.
Residents in Nyandarua, Laikipia, Nyeri, Murang’a, and Kirinyaga experienced low night-time temperatures of up to 10°C last week.
"Some areas in Nyandarua, Laikipia, Nyeri, Murang’a, and Kirinyaga may experience low night-time temperatures (below 10°C)."
The weather department also forecasted moderate rainfall in various areas within Nairobi City County on Monday, March 18.
"Monday, March 18th: Moderate rainfall expected in various areas of Nairobi City County," the weather department revealed.
Extreme heat in Nairobi
Gilbert Ouma, the head of the Institute for Climate Change and Adaptation at the University of Nairobi and an associate professor in Meteorology, explained that during the period from December to February, Kenya experiences winds originating from the north.
These winds traverse primarily over land, including desert regions, and are characterized by their periodic surges, often bringing hot weather to East Africa, as seen recently.
The prevailing temperatures in Kenya are intricately linked to the trajectory of these northern winds.
When the winds take a direct path over the landmass, they contribute to the elevated temperatures witnessed in the early months of 2024.
However, when the winds veer towards the Indian Ocean, their influence moderates, resulting in cooler conditions and increased rainfall across Kenya and other parts of East Africa.
