Laikipia Among Counties On Alert As Met Department Warns Of Heavy Rains

By Fatuma Rashid Arfun

Residents of Laikipia County have been urged to prepare for heavy rainfall expected to peak between March 4 and March 7, the Kenya Meteorological Department warned Tuesday.

The advisory, issued March 3 at 4pm, says rainfall exceeding 20 millimetres within 24 hours is expected across several regions between March 3 evening and March 9.

Laikipia is among counties in the central highlands expected to experience moderate to heavy rainfall as storms intensify before gradually reducing in many areas after March 8.

“Residents should prepare for heavy rainfall that could trigger flash floods, reduced visibility and hazardous conditions, especially between March 4 and March 7,” said Director General Edward Muriuki.

The department said the advisory carries a moderate probability of occurrence, estimated between 33 percent and 66 percent across the affected regions.

Heavy rainfall exceeding 20 millimetres in 24 hours is also expected to persist in the Lake Victoria Basin, western Kenya, southeastern lowlands and coastal region.

Counties listed in the advisory include Samburu, Nyeri, Nyandarua, Kirinyaga, Murang’a, Kiambu, Embu, Meru, Nairobi, Nakuru, Narok, Kajiado and Machakos among others.

Other affected areas include Bungoma, Kakamega, Busia, Kisumu, Homa Bay, Kisii, Kericho, Bomet, Migori and parts of Turkana and West Pokot.

Coastal and eastern counties such as Mombasa, Kilifi, Kwale, Tana River, Kitui, Makueni and Taita Taveta are also expected to receive significant rainfall.

“People should avoid walking or driving through moving water and should not shelter under trees or near grilled windows during thunderstorms,” said Director General Edward Muriuki.

The Meteorological Department warned that flood waters may appear even in areas where rainfall has been minimal, especially downstream sections.

Residents were also advised to watch out for lightning strikes and poor visibility while authorities continue monitoring conditions and issuing updates if necessary.