Kenya Meteorological Department Warns of Heavy Downpours for MAM…

The Kenya Meteorological Department warns of heavy rainfalls as the March-April-May Long Rains season begins, with significant rainfall expected in various regions including highlands and Nairobi County. The onset conditions have been met, and the season is anticipated to peak in May, while dry spells may follow in some regions.

The Kenya Meteorological Department (KMD) has issued alerts for heavy downpours as the March-April-May (MAM) Long Rains season approaches. KMD Director David Gikungu has confirmed continued rainfall across various regions, advising the public to take precautions. Significant rainfall is expected, particularly in highland areas, Nairobi County, and parts of the northeastern region.

Between March 3 and 9, 2025, a noticeable rise in rainfall was observed, especially in southeastern lowlands and northeastern regions. The week of March 10 to 16 marks the official start of the MAM season, impacting the highlands and areas around the Lake Victoria Basin, among others. Rainfall is also anticipated in other regions such as Isiolo County and the southeastern lowlands.

The onset of the Long Rains season is defined by two conditions: a wet spell with at least 20 mm of rainfall over three consecutive days and the absence of a subsequent dry spell lasting seven days. For the northern regions, the requirement is slightly reduced to 10 mm over the same duration.

Further expectation includes the onset of rains in the highlands and southeastern lowlands during the current week. However, dry spells may follow in the northeastern region, with limited rainfall anticipated in northwestern and coastal parts through March. The coastal region is predicted to peak in rainfall in May, with a likely onset in April.

KMD alerts for heavy rainfall during the MAM Long Rains season indicate widespread precipitation across Kenya. The official start of this season has commenced, especially marking significant events in highland areas and the Lake Victoria Basin. Monitoring of the defined rainfall thresholds is crucial, as the region braces for precipitation with potential subsequent dry spells invited by regional climatic patterns.

Original Source: allafrica.com