By KPC Reporter
The Kenya Meteorological Department has issued a fresh heavy rainfall advisory warning that downpours being experienced across the country will intensify over the coming days, raising fears of more deadly flooding.
In the advisory released on March 18, the weatherman said rainfall exceeding 20mm in 24 hours is expected between March 19 and March 24, with peak intensity projected between March 20 and March 23.
The rains will affect several regions, including the Lake Victoria Basin, Rift Valley, Highlands East and West of the Rift Valley, and parts of southeastern Kenya.
The department cautioned that even as intensity reduces toward the end of the period, rainfall will persist in many parts of the country, increasing the risk of floods, poor visibility and landslides, especially in vulnerable areas.
Residents in affected counties have been advised to remain vigilant for flash floods, particularly in low-lying and downstream areas, and to avoid walking or driving through flooded sections, sheltering under trees, or staying near grilled windows during storms.
The warning comes against the backdrop of recent devastating floods that have already claimed dozens of lives and displaced thousands of families across the country.
According to recent reports, at least 62 people have died following heavy rains that triggered flash floods, with Nairobi among the hardest-hit areas.
More recent updates indicate the death toll could be even higher, with about 71 fatalities reported nationwide as of mid-March, alongside widespread destruction of homes and infrastructure.
The floods, caused by intense overnight rainfall, have swept away vehicles, submerged roads and disrupted transport, exposing the country’s vulnerability to extreme weather events.
Experts have repeatedly linked the tragedies to poor drainage systems, rapid urbanisation and settlement in riparian areas.
Authorities are urging Kenyans to heed weather advisories and take precautionary measures to avoid further loss of life.