Weatherman warns of heavy to very heavy rainfall, urges caution

The Kenya Meteorological Department is warning of heavy to very heavy rainfall in the Nairobi metropolis.

In an advisory, the Weatherman is warning of heavy rainfall of more than 40-millimeters intensifying to 50-millimeters in 24hrs pounding several parts of the Lake Victoria Basin, the Rift Valley, Highlands West and East of the Rift Valley including Nairobi area, the Southeast Lowlands, coast and northern sector.

In the forecast signed by the Director of Meteorological Services Dr. David Gikungu, the Weatherman is further warning that the heavy rainfall is likely to be accompanied with gusty winds, “large Ocean Waves in the Indian Ocean and strong southerly winds in the eastern sector of the country.”

The public is being advised to be on the lookout for potential floods, flash floods and poor visibility.

The water levels in rivers, lakes and dams are expected to remain high. People leaving downstream rivers and along seasonal rivers are being reminded to be careful since water may appear suddenly even though it may not be raining within the area.

“Residents in all the mentioned areas are advised to be on the lookout for potential floods, flash floods and poor visibility. The water levels in rivers, lakes and dams are expected to remain high,” says Dr. Gikungu, “People leaving downstream rivers and along seasonal rivers should be careful since water may appear suddenly even though it may not be raining within the area.”

Motorists are advised to avoid driving through, or people walking in moving water. The weatherman is also urging the public to avoid sheltering under trees during rainstorms not sitting near metallic window grills to avoid cases of lightning strikes.

“People in landslide prone areas especially over the slopes of the Aberdare ranges, Mt. Kenya, western and other hilly areas should be vigilant. Strong winds may blow off roofs, uproot trees and cause structural damages. Large waves may affect marine activities,” says the Weatherman.

The Weatherman says the rainfall will give a reprieve beginning Friday to Saturday.