Brace for heavy rains next week, weatherman says

Vehicles submerged by flood waters along Nairobi's Kenyatta Avenue. [File, Standard]

Heavy rainfall expected in several parts of the country throughout the week, the Kenya Meteorological Department says.

In a weekly forecast, the weatherman has predicted heavy rains accompanied by gusty winds until April 18, in 43 counties.

"Heavy rainfall is predicted over Lake Victoria Basi, the Rift Valley, Highlands West and East of Rift Valley including the Nairobi area, Southeastern Lowlands and South Coast on April 14. It is likely to intensify from April 15-18 along the coast," the MET department said.

The rains are likely to be accompanied by gusty winds, large ocean water and strong southerly winds in the Southeastern region. in parts of Rift Valley, Nairobi County, South Rift Valley, and South-Eastern lowlands.

Among the counties to be affected include Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, Nakuru, Tana-River, Narok, Garissa, Meru, Nyeri, Homabay, Kericho, Kisii, Vihiga, Kakamega,Uasin Gishu, Murang'a and Machakos among others.

Residents in the affected counties are urged to be on the lookout for potential floods, flash floods and reduced visibility.

Furthermore, motorists are cautioned against driving through water or walking in moving water.

The weatherman also cautions against sheltering under trees or near grilled windows, to minimise exposure to lightning strikes.

The forecast comes amidst ongoing rainfall in the Nairobi metropolitan area and many other parts of the country.