The Kenya Power & Lighting Company (KPLC) has issued an advisory to the public regarding the impending long rainy season as forecasted by the Kenya Meteorological Department.
The statement issued on Tuesday highlighted the potential challenges posed by severe weather conditions expected from April to June, including strong winds, lightning, thunderstorms, and flooding.
“With the long rains set to begin from April to June this year as predicted by Kenya Meteorological Department, severe weather conditions such as strong winds, lightning, thunderstorms, flooding will persist throughout the season,” read the statement.
Impact of heavy rains on KPLC’s service delivery
Furthermore, KPLC raised awareness about the potential impact of heavy rains on their service delivery, citing risks such as the collapse of electricity poles, flash floods, landslides, and disruptions to power lines caused by fallen trees or branches.
Also Read: KPLC Moves to End Power Blackouts with Ksh50M Facility
“Heavy rains accompanied by strong winds have the potential to cause: Collapse of electricity poles during strong winds, flash floods, land or mudslides.”
“Breaking of power lines due to trees or branches falling on power lines. Power supply interruption due to the damage of our power distribution infrastructure e.g, by floods, fallen power lines etc,” KPLC noted.
The company stressed the need for heightened vigilance during this period to mitigate potential damages to the power distribution infrastructure and ensure uninterrupted services.
Power through the rains initiative
In response to the anticipated weather challenges, KPLC has launched the “Power through the Rains” initiative, urging the public to promptly report any incidents or issues that may arise.
Individuals are encouraged to reach out to KPLC at 97771 or 0703070707 to report emergencies or concerns related to power supply interruptions resulting from adverse weather conditions.
Through this proactive program, KPLC aims to enhance public safety, minimize service disruptions, and facilitate a swift response to any incidents during the rainy season.
Kenya Meteorological Department’s forecast
According to the latest forecast from the Kenya Meteorological Department released on April 1, heavy rains are expected to pound various regions, including Central and Western Kenya, Rift Valley, Southeast lowlands, Coast, Northeast, and Northwest between April 2 and April 8.
Authorities have advised residents to prepare for potential flooding in these areas, with high temperatures predicted in counties such as Turkana, Marsabit, Mandera, Wajir, Isiolo, Garissa, Tana River, Lamu, Kilifi, Mombasa, and Kwale.
Also Read: FLOODS ALERT: Govt Lists Counties of Concern, Issues Instructions
Daytime temperatures are projected to rise above 30°C over the next seven days, while night-time temperatures are anticipated to remain elevated, exceeding 25°C, particularly along the Coast and in North-Eastern Kenya.
Residents in the mentioned areas are urged to stay alert for potential floods and flash floods, avoid traversing through moving water, steer clear of open fields, and refrain from seeking shelter under trees or near grilled windows to minimize the risk of lightning strikes.
Additionally, Strong gusty winds may result in roof damage, tree uprooting, and structural harm, emphasizing the need for caution and preparedness during this rainy season.
