As the clouds darken, Kenya braces for another week of relentless rain, as predicted by the Meteorological Department. With severe rains forecast to continue in several parts of the country, the nation is bracing for catastrophic floods and their destructive consequences as witnessed in the previous days.
The Meteorological Department issued a strong alert for the week of May 7 to May 13, highlighting the likelihood of heavy rain in key areas.
The Highlands East and West of the Rift Valley, the Lake Victoria Basin, and the Rift Valley itself are forecast to bear the brunt of the deluge throughout the first half of the week.
Despite the possibility of a minor decrease in rainfall intensity later in the week, numerous areas are anticipated to remain vulnerable to morning rains and isolated thunderstorms.
People walking in the rain
The north-western part of Kenya, in particular, is expected to experience a variety of meteorological events, including morning rain, afternoon showers, and overnight thunderstorms.
Meanwhile, the Highlands East of the Rift Valley may experience early showers, which will progressively subside by the end of the week. Similarly, north-eastern Kenya and the south-eastern lowlands are expected to see a mix of morning rainfall, afternoon showers, and thunderstorms, with occasional intervals of sunshine providing brief respite.
Despite the anticipation of consistent rainfall, the Coastal region may have afternoon and nighttime showers, which might worsen flooding issues.
The Meteorological Department issued a serious warning about the continued potential of flooding, particularly in low-lying areas and metropolitan areas with inadequate drainage systems.
The horrific toll of the ongoing deluge is mirrored in the rising death toll and the staggering number of displaced individuals.
With 228 people dead, over 164 injured, and over 212,630 displaced, the impact of the extreme rains since March has been substantial, highlighting the vital need for comprehensive disaster management and mitigation approaches.
As Kenya struggles with constant rain, people get together to withstand the storm, exhibiting tenacity in the face of adversity.
However, as the country navigates the treacherous seas of this natural disaster, the demand for preparedness and solidarity becomes stronger, resonating across the rain-soaked countryside.
The government, through the Ministry of Interior, has advised the citizens to stay away from the shores and any other flood-prone areas. Tourists and other foreigners who were stranded in the Maasai Mara game reserve were immediately evacuated following heavy rains and threatening floods.
