NAKURU: Heavy Storms Forecast As Met Department Issues Flash Floods Alert

By Staff Writer

Residents of Nakuru 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, indicates rainfall exceeding 20 millimetres within 24 hours may occur across several regions between March 3 evening and March 9.

Nakuru is among counties in the central highlands expected to experience moderate to heavy rainfall as storms intensify midweek before easing gradually in most 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 acting 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 within 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 counties 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 Muriuki.

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

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