Met issues Heavy Rainfall Advisory
The Kenya Meteorological Department has issued an advisory warning of heavy rainfall affecting parts of Central Kenya, Nairobi, the Central Rift Valley and the southeastern lowlands from Thursday, November 14th to Friday, November 15th.
The affected regions include Meru, Embu, Tharaka Nithi, Kirinyaga, Murang’a, Nyeri, Kiambu, Nyandarua, Laikipia, Isiolo, Nakuru, Kericho, Bomet, Narok, parts of Kajiado, Nairobi, Machakos, Kitui, and Makueni.
Rainfall is expected to exceed 20mm within 24 hours, with some areas potentially receiving 30mm+ by Friday, increasing the likelihood of flash floods in low-lying areas.
Central Nairobi and the Southeastern lowlands are among the regions most likely to experience the heaviest downpours, which could lead to sudden and unpredictable flooding, especially in vulnerable areas.
Residents are strongly advised to avoid walking or driving through moving water and stay away from open fields during the rains. It is crucial to seek shelter indoors during thunderstorms, staying clear of trees and windows.
Those living in landslide-prone areas, such as near the Aberdare Ranges and Mt. Kenya, should remain extra vigilant, as heavy rainfall could increase the risk of landslides.
The Meteorological Department urges people living near rivers and seasonal streams to be cautious, as water levels may rise rapidly even if it's not raining directly in their area. The rains are expected to reduce in intensity from November 16th, but residents are advised to stay informed and prepared throughout this period.
As we move deeper into November, residents of Kiambu County should expect a mix of weather conditions that will significantly impact both the local agriculture sector and daily life.
According to the County Meteorological Director Magdalene Gateri, the weekly forecast for the period from 12th to 18th November indicates that rainfall is expected to continue over several areas of Kiambu.
Areas expecting high rainfall include Gatundu North and Gatundu South, with rainfall ranging from 70mm. Some parts of Lari Constituency are expected to receive more than 50mm of rainfall.
Some areas of Kiambu County are expected to receive rainfall ranging from 20mm to over 40mm. These include parts of Gatundu North, Gatundu South, Lari, and Githunguri, where the rainfall is likely to remain below 50mm.
Other regions are expected to receive rainfall ranging from 2mm to over 15mm, with amounts likely to remain below 20mm. These areas include Kiambu Town, Kiambaa, Juja, Ruiru, Thika Town, Kabete, Kikuyu, Limuru, Githunguri, Lari, Gatundu North, and Gatundu South.
Some regions will not receive any rain, including areas such as Kikuyu and Ruiru. According to Gateri, the rainfall is expected to decrease in intensity at the beginning of the forecast period.
In most parts of Kiambu County, rainfall is expected to increase in intensity by Thursday and Friday. Morning rains are anticipated in many areas of the county. In most places, afternoon and night rains are also expected, but they will occasionally spread to other areas.
Gateri urged the residents of Kiambu to harvest water and conserve it properly for future use and consumption.