Met Predicts Rainfalls Across Multiple Regions as Nighttime Temps Rise
The Meteorological Department has released a forecast for the upcoming week, predicting varied weather conditions across different regions. While much of the country will enjoy sunny and dry days, several regions should prepare for rainfall.
Regions Expecting Rainfall: According to the forecast, Kenyans in the Central Highlands, Western Kenya, Lake Victoria Basin, Rift Valley, the Coast, and Northeastern areas should anticipate rain during this period.
Sunny and Dry Areas: On the contrary, areas including the North-eastern, North-western, and South-eastern lowlands are expected to remain sunny and mostly dry. Temperatures in some of these regions could exceed 30°C, prompting the department to advise residents to stay cool and hydrated.
Temperature Fluctuations: The forecast also highlights the potential drop in nighttime temperatures, which could fall below 10°C in parts of the Central Highlands and Central Rift Valley. Residents in these areas should be prepared for cooler nights.
This forecast follows a comprehensive report on the impacts of climate change across the country. The report emphasized the increasing severity and duration of heatwaves, often linked to rises in emergency department visits and hospital admissions.
The report cautioned about the long-term effects of climate change, predicting a grave scenario if emissions are not controlled. By 2080, an additional 75.9 million people in Eastern and Southern Africa may be at risk of malaria, and wheat yields in Africa could drop by 15% by 2050.
Furthermore, the report highlighted the intensification of heavy rainfall in the Horn of Africa in 2023, which has led to significant human and environmental impacts, including over 300 fatalities and the displacement of over a million people. The excessive rainfall swelled major rivers, devastated farmlands, degraded soil quality, and reduced agricultural output, affecting food security.
Impact on Great Rift Valley Lakes: The report noted substantial expansion in the sizes of the Great Rift Valley lakes, with Lake Naivasha growing by 21% and Lake Solai expanding by up to 123%.
In response to these climate changes, the department has underscored the urgent need for action. Immediate interventions, including the mobilization of international climate finance, are crucial for supporting adaptation strategies and fostering low-carbon developments, aiming for a sustainable and equitable future for all Kenyans.
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