Weatherman-Brace for heavy rains until Thursday

Kenyans have been warned to brace themselves for heavy rainfall expected to persist until Thursday.

According to the Kenya Meteorological Department, the downpour will commence on Saturday and continue until 6 pm on April 18, 2024.

The forecast indicates that intense rains will lash several regions, including the Lake Victoria Basin, the Rift Valley, Highlands West and East of the Rift Valley, Nairobi, Southeastern Lowlands, Coast, and the northern sector.

"Heavy rainfall of more than 40mm in 24hrs is anticipated over various areas on April 14, 2024," said Director of Meteorological Services David Gikungu.

He cautioned residents of potential floods, flash floods, and reduced visibility, especially in counties such as Kisumu, Homabay, Siaya, Migori, Busia, Kisii, Nyamira, Nandi, Kericho, Bomet, Kakamega, and others.

Gikungu emphasized the risks associated with heavy rains, including gusty winds, large ocean waves, and strong southerly winds in the Southeastern region.

Residents were advised to take precautionary measures, such as avoiding driving or walking in moving water, staying away from open fields, and refraining from seeking shelter under trees or near grilled windows during lightning storms.

To enhance public safety, the Meteorological Department introduced a new mobile application called FASTA (Forecasting African Storms Application), providing real-time updates on storm developments and live weather conditions.

The app offers users options to monitor storm regions and rainfall activity, aiming to mitigate the impact of heavy rainfall that has caused widespread destruction across the country.