Kenya Meteorological Department Forecasts Continued Rainfall in Key Regions Amidst Varied Weather Patterns
Nairobi, Kenya – The Kenya Meteorological Department (KMD) has released its weekly weather forecast, providing crucial insights into anticipated weather conditions across the nation from February 17th to February 23rd. The advisory highlights a continuation of rainfall in several key regions, while other areas are expected to experience predominantly sunny and dry spells. Additionally, significant temperature variations are predicted, with some parts of the country bracing for high daytime temperatures and others anticipating notably cool nights.
Rainfall Expected to Persist in Five Major Regions
The KMD’s forecast indicates that ongoing rainfall is set to continue throughout the week in five distinct geographical areas. These include:
- Western Kenya: This region is expected to receive continued rainfall, impacting counties such as Nandi, Kakamega, Vihiga, Bungoma, Siaya, and Busia.
- The Central Highlands: Including the capital city, Nairobi, this elevated area will also experience consistent rainfall. This encompasses counties like Nyandarua, Laikipia, Nyeri, Kirinyaga, Murang’a, Kiambu, Meru, Embu, Tharaka-Nithi, and Nairobi.
- The Lake Victoria Basin: The counties bordering Africa’s largest lake are forecast to see continued precipitation. This includes Kisii, Nyamira, Kericho, Bomet, Kisumu, Homabay, and Migori.
- The Rift Valley: Significant rainfall is predicted across various Rift Valley counties, such as Baringo, Nakuru, Trans-Nzoia, Uasin-Gishu, Elgeyo-Marakwet, West Pokot, and Narok.
- Parts of the Southeastern Lowlands: A portion of the southeastern lowlands will also experience ongoing rainfall. This includes Machakos, Kitui, Makueni, Kajiado, Taita-Taveta Counties, and the inland parts of Tana-River county.
The KMD explicitly stated, “Rains are expected to continue over Western Kenya, the Central Highlands including Nairobi, the Lake Victoria Basin, the Rift Valley, and parts of the Southeastern Lowlands.”
Sunny and Dry Conditions for Northeastern and Northwestern Kenya
In stark contrast to the aforementioned regions, the northeastern and northwestern parts of Kenya are predicted to experience predominantly sunny and dry conditions for the duration of the forecast period. This means that residents and visitors in these areas can expect clear skies and minimal to no rainfall. Counties anticipated to be dry include Turkana, Samburu, Marsabit, Mandera, Wajir, Garissa, and Isiolo.
Significant Temperature Fluctuations Predicted
Beyond rainfall patterns, the KMD has also projected notable temperature variations across the country.
High Daytime Temperatures Expected
Several parts of Kenya are likely to experience daytime maximum temperatures exceeding 30°C. This heat is particularly forecast for:
- The Coast: Coastal counties such as Mombasa, Kilifi, Lamu, and Kwale, as well as the Tana Delta region, are expected to be hot during the day.
- The Southeastern Lowlands: Some areas within the southeastern lowlands will also see high daytime temperatures.
- Northeastern and Northwestern Kenya: Consistent with the dry and sunny conditions, these regions are also projected to record high maximum temperatures above 30°C.
Cool Nights in Specific Highland and Western Areas
Conversely, a different temperature extreme is anticipated for certain regions during the nighttime. Minimum temperatures dropping below 10°C are expected in:
- Parts of the Central Highlands: Cooler nights are forecast for elevated areas within the central highlands.
- The Central Rift Valley: Sections of the central Rift Valley will also experience significantly cooler nighttime temperatures.
- Western Kenya: Some parts of Western Kenya are also predicted to have minimum temperatures below 10°C.
- Areas Near Mt. Kilimanjaro: Regions situated in proximity to Mount Kilimanjaro are also likely to experience these cool nighttime conditions.
The department noted, “Cool Nights: Nighttime (minimum) temperatures below 10°C are expected in parts of the Central Highlands, the Central Rift Valley, Western Kenya, and areas near Mt. Kilimanjaro.”
The KMD’s detailed forecast serves as a vital resource for planning and preparedness across various sectors, from agriculture and transportation to public health and daily activities. Residents are advised to stay updated with any further weather advisories issued by the department.
