The Kenya Meteorological Department has warned the public of heavy rains expected to lash various parts of the country starting from Tuesday, March 26, 2024, until April 1, 2024.
In a statement on Monday, March 25, the weatherman highlighted the regions likely to experience intense rainfall.
“Weather outlook for 26 March to 1 April 2024. Rainfall is expected over several parts of the country. Isolated heavy rainfall events likely in Central Highlands, Western Kenya, Rift Valley, South-eastern lowlands, and Coast,” the weatherman stated.
Additionally, the department indicated high average daytime temperatures exceeding 30°C in several regions including Turkana, Samburu, Marsabit, Mandera, Wajir, Isiolo, Garissa, Tana River, Lamu, Kilifi, Mombasa, and Kwale.
Night-time temperatures are also expected to remain notably high, surpassing 25°C in parts of the Coast, North-eastern, and North-western Kenya.
Flood safety tips
In light of the heavy rains on Sunday night in Nairobi and other parts of the country, the E-Plus Ambulances has also issued flood safety tips to the public, urging residents to take precautionary measures.
These include immediate evacuation to elevated areas in the event of flooding, avoiding walking or driving through floodwaters, and exercising caution near streams and rivers.
The ambulance service owned by the Kenya Red Cross emphasized the danger posed by even minimal amounts of moving water noting that just six inches can knock a person down, while a foot can sweep away a vehicle.
Furthermore, the advisory highlighted the importance of switching off electricity at the main switch if a house is flooded, refraining from parking or engaging in activities near water bodies during heavy rainfall, and avoiding areas where power lines may have fallen.
The public was also urged to stay informed by listening to designated radio or TV stations for updates on the weather conditions and flooded areas.
Man almost swept off in heavy rains
Heavy rainfall in Nairobi county early Monday morning resulted in the loss of four lives, as confirmed by authorities.
The downpour led to flooded roads and walkways, creating challenging conditions for residents as they struggled to commute to their workplaces.
A viral video circulating on Twitter depicted an unidentified man expressing his disbelief at surviving a terrifying ordeal in a drain.
He gestures silently, recounting his near-death experience of almost being swept away by the floods.
Fortunately, he was rescued by bystanders after becoming trapped in a culvert upon landing in the drainage system, as shown in a brief clip shared by user Stella Millii Kamau.
