David Gikungu, the head of the Kenya Meteorological Department, shed light on the recent surge in rainfall across Kenya, attributing it to El Niño and the Indian Ocean dipole signals.
During an interview on Monday, April 29, Gikungu explained on a local TV station that the ongoing weather patterns were influenced by signals of El Niño, which were also responsible for the heavy rains experienced towards the end of 2023.
Clarifying that the current rains were not a full-blown El Niño event but rather enhanced long rains, Gikungu emphasized the continuation of a strong El Niño signal from the short rains period, impacting the long rains season.
In the past fortnight, several regions of Kenya have witnessed rainfall ranging from 40 to 100 millimeters, with expectations of continued enhanced rainfall throughout the week in certain areas.
However, the intensified rains have resulted in floods, claiming over 70 lives and causing extensive damage to property. The Meteorological Department warned of potential flooding in low-lying areas, flood plains, and urban regions with inadequate drainage systems.
Furthermore, the public was cautioned against driving or wading through swiftly moving water, with the likelihood of heavy rainfall being accompanied by strong winds, thunderstorms, and lightning strikes. Safety measures advised by the Kenya Met included avoiding shelter under trees or metallic structures to minimize exposure to lightning.
Concurrently, the government urged citizens to relocate to higher ground in anticipation of possible landslides in various parts of the country, as a precautionary measure amid the ongoing weather conditions.
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