Kenya Meteorological Department Director Dr. David Gikungu speaks about connection between El Nino and the heavy rains being experienced across the country...CONTINUE READING THE FULL ARTICLE>>>
Kenya Meteorological Department Director Dr. David Gikungu shed light on the significant role of the El Niño phenomenon in influencing Kenya’s recent weather patterns, particularly during the long rain season.
El Niño, a climate pattern characterized by the warming of ocean waters in the central and eastern tropical Pacific, has profound impacts on weather systems worldwide.
Enhanced Long Rain season
Dr. Gikungu elaborated on how the signals of El Niño, identified early during the forecast preparations for the March-April-May season, suggested an inevitable increase in rainfall.
“The signal for El Niño was still strong and it was very clear that the rainfall would be enhanced if the signal persisted,” he stated.
True to their forecasts, the El Niño phenomenon has persisted and has been instrumental in the heavy rainfall witnessed during the long rain season.
Understanding the Impact
Typically, Kenya’s long rains are more intense than the short rains. However, the influence of El Niño has amplified these conditions further.
“You may want to note that under normal circumstances, the long rains season is normally more intense than the short rains. So when we have something like this feature of El Niño influencing the weather, you expect that the situation will be different and it has been different,” explained Dr. Gikungu.
Implications for Kenya
The enhanced rainfall, while beneficial for agricultural activities in some regions, has also posed challenges such as flooding, increased risk of waterborne diseases, and disruptions to daily life and transportation.
Weather Forecast for May 2024
The forecast predicts near-average to above-average rainfall for several parts of the country, accompanied by occasional storms.
Regional Breakdown
Lake Victoria Basin and the Highlands West of the Rift Valley: These areas will experience continuous rainfall throughout May, with totals likely exceeding the average. Residents should prepare for occasional storms.
Nairobi and the Highlands East of the Rift Valley: Expect regular rainfall, particularly intense during the first week of May. The weather will cool down in June and July, with light rains and cloudy skies.
Southeastern Lowlands and the Coastal Strip: These regions will also see near to above-average rainfall, with the peak of the Long Rains season occurring in May for coastal areas..CONTINUE READING>>
