Kenya is forecasted to experience moderate rainfall and high temperatures next week, with light rain expected predominantly in western regions. Areas within the Highlands East of the Rift Valley, including Nairobi, may experience varied weather patterns, while elevated heat stress is projected in eastern counties. The ICPAC predicts drier-than-usual conditions for most of East Africa, with exceptions for certain wetter regions.
Kenya anticipates moderate rainfall and high temperatures across various regions in the following week, while its neighboring countries may experience above-average precipitation. The Igad Climate Predictions and Applications Center (ICPAC) has provided a weekly forecast for March 12 to March 19, indicating light rainfall expected in western Kenya, estimated to be below 50 mm.
The forecast indicates that light rain (less than 50 mm) is likely in southern and western Uganda, the majority of South Sudan, and select areas in northern Tanzania, as well as parts of central to southwestern Ethiopia. The Kenya Meteorological Department has already issued warnings about potential rainfall across most regions, including the possibility of isolated heavy showers.
Specifically, areas within the Highlands East of the Rift Valley, which encompass Nairobi, Murang’a, and Kiambu Counties, are predicted to experience morning rains at the start and conclusion of the forecast period. Notably, the Met has indicated that sunny intervals are likely on Thursday and Friday, while afternoon and night showers, as well as thunderstorms, may occur.
The Meteorological Department expects a reduction in rainfall intensity midway through the forecast, with a potential increase towards the end. With respect to temperatures, IGAD reports that certain regions in Kenya will experience high temperatures exceeding 32 °C; specifically, areas in eastern South Sudan, western Ethiopia, and northwestern Kenya.
The forecast predicts milder temperature conditions (less than 20 °C) for parts of Nairobi, Kiambu, and locations in western Kenya such as Nakuru, Busia, and Eldoret during the upcoming week. Furthermore, eastern regions of Kenya, including Makueni, Machakos, and Taita Taveta counties, face heightened risks of elevated heat stress.
In an overarching climatic assessment, IGAD advises that drier conditions are anticipated across much of Ethiopia, Somalia, Djibouti, Kenya, Rwanda, Burundi, most of western Uganda, South Sudan, and north-western Tanzania over the March-April-May period. Conversely, wetter conditions are expected over areas in western and southwestern Kenya, eastern Uganda, eastern South Sudan, and western Ethiopia, along with various regions in Tanzania.
In summary, Kenya is bracing for moderate rainfall and warm temperatures over the coming week. With light rainfall predicted in specific regions and potential isolated heavy showers, Nairobi and surrounding counties may witness mixed weather conditions. Meanwhile, the forecast highlights both elevated heat stress in certain eastern counties and drier conditions across broader East Africa, alongside wetter weather in select areas of Kenya and its neighboring countries.
Original Source: www.kenyans.co.ke
