The Ministry of Interior, based on advice from the Kenya Meteorological Department, has identified 33 counties slated to receive heavy to very heavy rainfall across the country this Saturday. This heavy rainfall is expected to be accompanied by thunderstorms.
Nairobi, the capital city of Kenya, is among the areas forecasted to experience heavy to very heavy rainfall. In the Central region, Nyeri, Murang'a, Kirinyaga, Kiambu, and Nyandarua are on the list. The Rift Valley region will be affected, including Nandi, Bomet, Nakuru, Elgeyo Marakwet, West Pokot, Baringo, Samburu, Turkana, Uasin Gishu, Laikipia, and Narok.
Counties in the Western part of Kenya, such as Kakamega, Vihiga, Busia, Bungoma, and Trans Nzoia, are also expected to experience heavy to very heavy rainfall. In the Lake Victoria Basin region, Kisumu, Kisii, Nyamira, Migori, Siaya, and Homa Bay will be affected.
The Eastern region, comprising Machakos, Embu, Tharaka Nithi, Meru, and Marsabit counties, is also forecasted to experience heavy rainfall. The ministry warned of potential flooding in low-lying areas, riparian areas, and urban areas, with the risk of landslides/mudslides in areas with steep slopes, escarpments, and ravines.
However, most parts of the North Eastern region, specifically Isiolo, Garissa, Wajir, Mandera counties, and the South Eastern region (Kitui, Makueni, Taita, Taveta, Tana River), are expected to remain generally dry.
The ministry highlighted concerns about continuous heavy rains in the Central region and potential overflow of the Seven Forks Dams, posing risks of flooding in the Tana Delta, which could impact Garissa, Tana River, and Lamu Counties.
Despite sunny intervals in the Coast region, Tropical Cyclone Hidaya is expected to bring strong winds and large ocean waves, primarily affecting Kwale and Kilifi. Heavy rainfalls are anticipated to start on Sunday, May 5.
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