The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) has issued ten directives to motorists on how to navigate the roads during the rainy season.
In a statement on Tuesday, November 14 morning, the Transport and Safety Authority issued tips on how to drive carefully in wet weather.
They further called on motorists to be more careful to avoid accidents.
Tips for Driving in Wet Weather
Buckle Up and Be Alert
NTSA has called on drivers to buckle up before commencing their journey and remain alert throughout.
The use of seatbelts keeps both drivers and passengers safe during heavy impact. Buckling up while driving also keeps one on the seat thence, reducing the chances of getting hurt in the case a vehicle swerves off the road or gets into an accident
Additionally, having seat belts on prevents one from getting in trouble with the authorities.
Avoid Travelling in Heavy Rain
The transport and safety authority further urged motorists to avoid driving during heavy rain.
When it pours heavily, one’s vision may be hindered and as a result increases the chances of an accident.
Also Read: Gachagua Forces Met Department to Apologize Over El Nino
However, if driving during heavy rain is unavoidable, drivers should exercise extra caution.
Avoid Crossing Running Water
Furthermore, NTSA warned drivers against attempts to cross running water.
With the presently experienced El-Nino rains, there may be several roads full of running water.
Because the depth of water may be difficult to gauge, attempts to cross may lead to the vehicle being submerged or swept off depending on the force and depth of the water.
Slow Down
When driving in wet weather, it is advisable to slow down as a number of factors may cause accidents.
For instance, speeding on a wet road may result to skidding, speeding when it is raining may hinder clear visibility among many other factors.
Notably, the speed limit in Kenya depends on the type of settlement, road, and vehicle.
In trading centers, towns, municipalities and cities, the limit is 50km/h. Elsewhere, it is 80km/h on single carriageway highways and 110km/h on dual carriageways.’
Also, the limit near schools in Kenya is 30km/h.
Use Wiper Blades
NTSA also encouraged drivers to use wipers regularly to clear the windshield of rain and debris.
They called on motorists to ensure that the windshield wipers are in good working condition and replace them if they are worn or streaking.
Consequently, when the rain is pelting down, there is usually a need to activate your car wipers to allow for clear visibility.
Turn on Headlights
During heavy rains, visibility is usually hindered.
As such, the authority has reminded drivers to turn on headlights so that other road users and fellow drivers may see them.
This move prevents head on collisions among other road accidents.
Notably, even during light rain, headlights should be turned on be more visible to other drivers. This is especially important when driving at dawn or dusk.
Avoid Using Cruise Control
Cruise control can be dangerous in wet conditions, as it can prevent one from reacting swiftly in case of an emergency.
Apply Brakes Earlier
It is advisable to apply brakes earlier and with less force than you would in dry conditions when driving in wet weather.
Properly applying brakes while driving in such conditions will prevent your vehicle from skidding.
Drive Safely
Nonetheless, NTSA reminded motorists to drive safely and responsibly, regardless of the weather conditions.
Some of the safety measures to take while on the road is maintaining a safe following distance, being aware of your surroundings, and avoiding distractions.
Others include driving smoothly while avoiding abrupt acceleration, braking, or turning maneuvers as well as driving defensively, anticipating the actions of other drivers while preparing to react accordingly.
El-Nino Rains It Is
Kenya has been experiencing heavy rains over the past one month.
However, there have been uncertainties as to whether the rains are El-nino or just normal heavy rains.
As such, while addressing the press on November 10, Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua directed the Kenya Meteorological Department Director David Gikungu to clear the confusion about El-Nino Rains.
Also Read: Murkomen Gives KeNHA Directive After Death Reports
In response, Gikungu said that it has been confirmed the country is experiencing El Nino rains and apologized for the earlier miscommunication that left Kenyans confused.
“I want to point out that as initially given in the forecast, we have El Nino in these short rains season 2023 and we do apologize for the miscommunication because that was a big mistake, but we are sorry about that,” he said.
“Moving forward let us prepare ourselves for the enhanced rainfall as a result of the El Nino phenomena that we are in,” he added.
While reacting to the report by the Met department, DP Gachagua stated, “The matter is settled, El Nino it is”.
Nevertheless, these rains are expected to extend till the first quarter of 2024.
Deaths From the El-Nino Rains
Further, the Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki reported that at least 46 people have been killed by flash floods across the country because of the ongoing El Nino rains.
In his speech on Monday November 13, Kindiki urged Kenyans to heed the advice of the government and move to safer areas as the rains persist.
“I want to appeal to Kenyans not to take chances when it comes to flood waters. We have already lost 46 people through this.
“Take great caution. When our officers tell you to evacuate from flood areas, please comply, and if you don’t, we will force you so that we can save lives,” Kindiki said.
