Kenya: Caution Advised as Long Rains Season Commences

The Kenya Meteorological Department warns of heavy downpours as the March-April-May Long Rains season begins. Director David Gikungu highlights expected rainfall across various regions, particularly in highlands and lowlands. Significant rainfall patterns have been observed, with specific criteria established for confirming the start of the long rains. Residents should remain vigilant as the season progresses.

The Kenya Meteorological Department (KMD) has issued a warning for Kenyan citizens to be vigilant as the March-April-May (MAM) Long Rains season commences. KMD Director David Gikungu confirmed ongoing rainfall across many regions, emphasizing that heavy downpours are anticipated this week.

Gikungu specifically pointed out that isolated heavy rainfall events are likely in areas such as the highlands east and west of the Rift Valley, Nairobi County, the Lake Victoria Basin, the Rift Valley, the southeastern lowlands, and northeastern Kenya. Notably, the rainfall amounts recorded from March 3 to 9, 2025, showed significant increases, particularly in the southeastern lowlands and parts of the northeastern region.

The rains observed during March 10 to 16, 2025, marked the official start of the MAM 2025 season. This onset was particularly evident in the highlands west of the Rift Valley and the Lake Victoria Basin. Other areas including the Rift Valley, Nairobi, and parts of Isiolo County also experienced similar rainfall patterns. KMD clarified that the onset of the Long Rains is defined by specific criteria, requiring accumulated rainfall of at least 20 mm over three consecutive days, alongside no dry spell lasting at least seven days thereafter.

For the northern regions, the criteria are slightly adjusted, requiring a minimum of 10 mm over three consecutive days. Gikungu mentioned that other parts of the highlands and southeastern lowlands are anticipated to experience the onset of rains this week, specifically from March 18-24. In addition, the northeastern region is also likely to witness the start of the season during this period. The northwestern regions and coastal areas will receive occasional rainfall throughout March 2025, with the coastal region expected to experience peak rainfall in May.

In conclusion, Kenyans should be prepared for significant rainfall as the MAM Long Rains season unfolds. With confirmed rainfall patterns and specific criteria set by the KMD for the season’s onset, it is crucial for residents in affected regions to stay alert and take necessary precautions. The coming weeks will be critical in assessing the rainfall distribution and intensity as the nation navigates through this rainy season.

Original Source: allafrica.com