NAIROBI, Kenya – Widespread disruptive weather of heavy rain and potential floods is set to unfold this weekend as Kenyans gear up for Idd-ul-Fitr celebrations across the country.
In a statement, Kenya Meteorological Department noted that a heavy downpour will affect most of the counties and shall intensify between Friday, March 20th and Monday, March 23rd before gradually easing on Tuesday, March 24.
Notably, persistent rainfall is expected in several regions, including Nairobi, the Lake Victoria Basin, Rift Valley, and the central highlands.
“This period of heavy rain comes at a time when many families will be travelling and gathering to celebrate. We urge all Kenyans to exercise extra caution, particularly in areas prone to flooding,” MET urged.
Kenyans are cautioned to stay vigilant of flash floods and avoid driving or walking through flowing water.
During the storms, they should avoid sheltering under trees or near metal structures and remain at high alert in landslide-prone areas, especially in hilly regions such as the Aberdares and Mt. Kenya slopes.
Counties expected to experience heavy rainfall include Turkana, Samburu, Migori, Nyamira, Bungoma, Busia, Kakamega, Vihiga, West Pokot, Baringo, Elgeyo Marakwet, Trans Nzoia, Nandi, Uasin Gishu, Nakuru, Siaya, Kisumu, Homa Bay, Kisii, Kericho, Bomet and Kiambu.
Additional counties to be affected include Embu, Murang’a, Kirinyaga, Nyandarua, Nyeri, Laikipia, Tharaka Nithi, Meru, Nairobi, Narok, Kajiado, Makueni, Machakos, Taita Taveta, Kitui, Kwale, Mombasa, Kilifi and Garissa.
Parts of Marsabit, Isiolo, Wajir, Mandera and Tana River are also expected to receive significant rainfall during this period.
Since the rains begun, at least 73 lives have been lost due to recent floods with 7 people still missing.
The situation has been particularly dire across 21 counties – including Nairobi, Kisumu, Narok, Kiambu, Migori, Siaya, Makueni, Busia and Wajir.
Others include: Kisii, Homa Bay, Taita Taveta, Baringo, Kajiado, Kitui, Kwale, Machakos, Kericho, Embu, Tharaka Nithi and West Pokot.
