The Kenya Meteorological Department has issued a weather advisory for the week of September 10 to September 16, alerting citizens to prepare for extreme weather conditions.
According to Director David Gikungu, the country will experience significant temperature fluctuations, with extremely cold nights and hot days. Several regions including the Central Highlands, Central and South Rift Valley, and South-Eastern Lowlands, are expected to face night temperatures as low as 10°C. This chilly weather will affect numerous counties, such as Nairobi, Nyandarua, Laikipia, Nyeri, Kirinyaga, Murang’a, Kiambu, Meru, Embu, and Tharaka Nithi. Other areas, including Kisii, Nyamira, Nandi, Kericho, Bomet, Kakamega, Vihiga, Bungoma, Siaya, Kisumu, Homabay, Busia, and Migori, will experience night temperatures between 10°C and 11°C.
Conversely, daytime temperatures are forecasted to exceed 30°C in regions such as the South Rift Valley, Coast, Western, North-Eastern, and North-Western Kenya. Counties like Marsabit, Mandera, Wajir, Garissa, Isiolo, Turkana, and Samburu will be particularly affected by these high temperatures. The weather department has also predicted moderate rainfall in parts of the Central Highlands, Western Kenya, Rift Valley, Lake Victoria Basin, and the Coast. While mornings are expected to have sunny intervals, afternoon showers and thunderstorms are likely to occur in some areas. Nights are anticipated to be partly cloudy, with occasional light showers. However, most of the country will experience generally sunny and dry conditions.
Given these varying weather patterns, Gikungu has emphasized the importance of staying informed and taking necessary precautions. The extreme temperature fluctuations can significantly impact health, agriculture, and daily activities across the country. The agricultural sector may face challenges due to these weather conditions, particularly in regions that rely on consistent patterns for crop growth. Farmers are advised to implement protective measures such as using irrigation systems to maintain soil moisture during hot days and covering crops to shield them from cold nights.
From a health perspective, extreme temperatures pose risks, especially to vulnerable populations including the elderly, children, and those with pre-existing conditions. Cold nights may increase the likelihood of respiratory illnesses, while hot days can lead to heat-related ailments such as heatstroke and dehydration. It is crucial for individuals to dress appropriately, stay hydrated, and avoid extended exposure to extreme temperatures. Historically, Kenya has experienced similar weather patterns during this transitional period between the long and short rainy seasons.
