Brace for heavier rains from Thursday, weatherman warns

Pedestrians cross a flooded Kenyatta Avenue roundabout in Nairobi. [Wilberforce Okwiri, Standard]

Various parts of Kenya are likely to experience floods, owing to heavy rainfall in the next week, the weatherman has warned.

In a circular on Wednesday, the Kenya Meteorological Department issued an advisory warning of potential flooding due to expected rainfall in parts of Nairobi, Western, Coast, Northeast, and the Central highlands.

"The heavy rainfall of more than 30mm in 24 hours is likely to continue between Friday, November 3 and Sunday, November 5. The intensity is projected to reduce on Monday over the southeastern lowlands and parts of the northeast," Kenya Met said.

According to the weatherman, the heavy downpour will be accompanied by strong winds that might cause roof displacement, tree uprooting, and structural harm.

Areas of Nairobi, Tharaka Nithi, Embu, Kimabu, Nyeri, Laikipia, Nyandarua, Meru, Murang'a, Marsabit, Mandera, Wajir, Garissa, Isiolo, Samburu, Turkana will be the most affected.

Additionally, Busia, Kisii, Nyamira, Kericho, Bomet, Nakuru, Narok, Migori, Trans Nzoia, Nandi, West Pokot, Baringo, Uasin Gishu, Elgeyo Marakwet, Vihiga, Bungoma, Homa Bay, Kisumu, Siaya, Kakamega, Kajiado, Machakos, Kitui, Makueni, Lamu, Tana-River, Taita Taveta, Kwale, Kilifi and Mombasa regions are also set to receive heavy rainfall.

Residents are advised to watch out for floods and take cover.

"Flood waters may appear in places where it has not rained heavily, especially downstream. Residents are advised to avoid driving through or walking in moving water or open fields and not to shelter under trees or near grilled windows when raining to minimize exposure to lightning strikes," said Kenya Met.

Those living in hilly areas and other regions in the west have been urged to remain vigilant given the risk of landslides.