Kenyans Prepared for Heavy Rains as Wet Season Approaches

Kenyans are warned of upcoming heavy rains as the wet season begins, influenced by the Madden-Julian Oscillation. Regions such as Western Kenya, the Rift Valley, and the Central Highlands are expected to be affected. The Meteorological Department urges precautions due to potential flooding and advises farmers to prepare accordingly. The March 2025 outlook predicts near to above-average rainfall for most areas, providing relief from droughts.

The Kenya Meteorological Department has warned that Kenyans should brace for increased rainfall as the wet season arrives. The anticipated rains are attributed to the Madden-Julian Oscillation (MJO), a weather phenomenon that shifts from west to east along the equator, resulting in rain and storms every 30 to 60 days.

Heavy rains are expected to affect several regions, with isolated heavy rainfall events likely in areas such as Western Kenya, the Rift Valley, the Central Highlands (including Nairobi), the Lake Victoria Basin, parts of the South-Eastern Lowlands, the Coast, and both North-Eastern and North-Western Kenya.

Director of Meteorological Services David Gikungu noted that during the second week of March, the MJO will be in phase two, potentially leading to an earlier onset of rains in some locations. Observations from last Sunday evening showed that many regions experienced considerable rainfall, similar to the heavy downpours recorded from March 9 to March 11, 2025.

The Kenya Meteorological Department has advised citizens to stay informed and take necessary precautions, particularly in flood-prone areas. Farmers are encouraged to prepare accordingly and engage with local agricultural extension officers. The cold and rain forecast reflects a relief from the dry seasons many areas have faced.

The weather outlook for March 2025, released on February 28, indicates most regions will likely see near to above-average rainfall, with certain areas potentially experiencing below-average precipitation.

In summary, the Kenyan population should prepare for consistent and increased rainfall, influenced by significant weather patterns. The upcoming rainy season promises to bring much-needed moisture to arid regions, though precautions must be taken to mitigate flooding risks.

The Kenya Meteorological Department alerts Kenyans to prepare for above-average rainfall due to the Madden-Julian Oscillation. Various regions will see heavy rains, especially in Western Kenya, the Rift Valley, and the Central Highlands. The department emphasizes the importance of precautions against flooding and encourages farmers to engage with agricultural officers. Overall, this wet season offers relief from prolonged dry periods.

Original Source: eastleighvoice.co.ke