The Kenya Meteorological Department (Kenya Met) has issued a heavy rainfall alert and warned of flash floods in some parts of the country.

According to the weatherman, the rainfall is expected to start on Thursday, November 14, and it is likely to continue for three days.

“Rainfall of more than 20mm is expected from Thursday, November 14, 2024, in parts of Central Rift Valley, Central, including the Nairobi area and the southeast lowlands.

“The rainfall is likely to intensify to 30mm in 24 hours on Friday, November 15, 2024, over south-eastern lowlands and central parts, including the Nairobi area. It is projected to reduce in intensity from November 16, 2024, over most parts of the country,” a statement by Kenya Met, released on Wednesday, November 13, 2024, said.

Areas of concern

The meteorology agency has also listed regions it terms as areas of concern. Those regions include Meru, Embu, Tharaka-Nithi, Kirinyaga, Murang’a, Nyeri, Kiambu, Nyandarua, Laikipia, Isiolo, and Nakuru. Kericho, Bomet, Narok, parts of Kajiado, Nairobi, Machakos, Kitui, and Makueni have also been listed as areas of concern.

Instructions

Apart from giving the heavy rainfall alert, Kenya Met has listed instructions that should be adhered to during the period.

“Residents in all the mentioned areas are advised to be on the lookout for potential flash floods. People living downstream rivers and along seasonal rivers should be careful since water may appear suddenly even though it may not be raining within the area.

“Residents are advised to avoid driving through, walking in moving water or open fields, and not to stroll under trees or near grilled windows to minimise exposure to lightning strikes.

“People in landslide-prone areas, especially over the slopes of the Aberdare ranges, Mount Kenya, and other hilly areas, should be vigilant. Updates will be provided promptly if there are any changes,” the advisory read.