Heavy Rains Expected in Western and Central Kenya Until End of June

The IGAD Climate Prediction and Application Centre (IGAD CPAC) has warned residents in western and central Kenya to prepare for heavier-than-normal rainfall that is expected to continue until the end of June. 

According to the weekly forecast released on June 22, Kenya is among the Greater Horn of Africa countries that will experience significant rainfall during this period.

The regional body has indicated that central and western regions of Kenya will receive more than usual rainfall, with moderate rainfall of between 50 and 200 millimetres expected to pour across several counties. 

"More than usual rainfall is expected over northern and south-western parts of South Sudan, parts of central to western and northern Ethiopia and isolated areas of both northern Uganda and central to western regions of Kenya," IGAD stated.

The western counties likely to be affected include Kisii, Nyamira, Kisumu, Kakamega, Bungoma, Vihiga, Siaya, and Homa-Bay. In the central region, the counties of Nyeri, Muranga, Kiambu, Embu, Kirinyaga, and Tharaka Nithi are also expected to experience the heavy downpours.

The Kenya Meteorological Service Authority (KMSA) has also predicted rainfall in these areas, which are situated in the Highlands East and West of the Rift Valley. According to KMSA, rainfall is expected over the Highlands East and West of the Rift Valley, the Rift Valley, the Coast and parts of North-eastern Kenya. 

Southern parts of the country, including the Coastal counties, are also expected to receive rainfall, though below the 50-millimetre mark, with IGAD dispelling the possibility of flooding in the region.

Across the wider Greater Horn of Africa region, South Sudan is bearing the heaviest forecast burden, with most of its territory expected to receive moderate to heavy rainfall throughout this period. 

Ethiopia is also in the thick of it, as the central, western, and northern parts of the country are forecast to receive moderate rainfall, while southern Ethiopia may only see light showers of less than 50 millimetres.

This forecast comes against the backdrop of the World Meteorological Organisation (WMO) flagging the Greater Horn of Africa as one of the regions expected to experience El Niño between October and December in Kenya. 

Residents in the affected counties are advised to take necessary precautions as the heavy rains continue to pound the region.