Kampala, Uganda – The meteorological services of Uganda and Kenya have released warnings of heavy rains which are to be experienced in the two countries soon.
“Heavy rains with lighting and thunder are expected to prevail over most parts of the country starting with Saturday October 26th to Wednesday October 30th, 2019. There is expected to be flooding especially in the urban area and low lying areas, mudslides in the mountainous areas and lighting strikes, ” A release signed by Paul Isabirye the acting Executive Director of the Uganda National Meteorological Authority (UNMA) says.
UNMA explained that there has been significant increase in rainfall over most parts of the country due to the rain-belt being over the country.
“This is attributed to the moist winds blowing from the Indian Ocean and the Congo forest,” it explained.
According to UNMA, areas most likely to be affected are those found in the Southern and Western regions particularly Kigezi highlands, Rwenzori Mountains ranges, parts of central region especially around Lake Victoria and the eastern parts of the country particularly Mt. Elgon areas.
“Please take note that Tuesday 29th and Wednesday 30th October, 2019 are expected to have even more rainfall within the forecast period,” the UNMA release reads.
Meanwhile, the Kenya Meteorological Department (KMD) has also released a second heavy rainfall alert in as many weeks.
“Heavy rainfall of more than 20mms in 24hrs is expected from Wednesday 23rd to Sunday 28th October 2019 over the coast, south eastern, north eastern, western and central region including Nairobi area. The intensities are expected to be higher especially over central, northeast and the coastal region.
KMD then lists the areas expected to be affected as: Mombasa, Kwale, Kilifi, parts of Tana River, Lamu, Nairobi, Nyeri, Kiambu, Nyandarua, Murang’a, Embu, Meru, Kirinyaga, Tharaka Nithi, Kitui, Taita Taveta, Busia, Kisii, Nyamira, Kericho, Bomet, Nakuru, Baringo, Narok, Migori, Nandi, West Pokot, Southern Turkana, Samburu, Trans Nzoia, Uasin Gishu, Elgeyo Marakwet, Vihiga, Bungoma, Homa Bay, Busia, Kisumu, Siaya, Kakamega, Nakuru, Isiolo, Garissa, Marsabit, Mandera and Wajir.
The release signed by Dr. Stella Aura, the Director General of KMD says: Residents in all the mentioned areas are advised to be on the lookout for potential floods. Flood waters may suddenly appear even in places where it has not rained heavily and can be deeper and faster than they look. Residents are advised to avoid driving through, or walking in moving water or open fields and not to shelter under trees and near grilled windows to minimize exposure to lighting strikes. People in landslide prone areas especially over the slopes of the Aberdare ranges, Mt. Kenya and other hilly areas over the western region should be on high alert. Updates will be provided promptly if there are any changes.
Source: http://necjogha.com