The Kenya Meteorological Department (Kenya Met) has issued more updates on the progress of the Tropical Storm, Cyclone Hidaya.
In a statement on May 4, Kenya Met issued guidelines in preparation for the storms that will affect coastal residents.
“The effects of the cyclone are already being felt offshore, with strong winds exceeding 40 knots (20.6 m/s) and large waves surpassing two meters,” the statement read in part.
According to the statement, residents should stay informed by regularly checking the latest weather forecasts and updates from the Department.
Cyclone Hidaya Safety Guidelines
Besides, residents have been advised to seek guidance from experts in relevant fields to mitigate potential impacts and ensure they stay safe and prepared.
“Residents, particularly in coastal regions and individuals involved in marine activities in the Indian Ocean, are encouraged to take maximum precautions,” added the statement.
Tanzania Meteorological Authority (TMA) confirmed that Cyclone Hidaya has significantly weakened after making landfall on Mafia Island in the country at 9am on May 5, 2024.
However, Kenya Met is closely monitoring the other depressions that are developing in its wake.
“Heavy rainfall is expected offshore along the Kenyan coast from Sunday, May 5th, intensifying and propagating inland and along the coast on Monday, May 6th, to Tuesday, May 7th, 2024,” the statement reads in part.
The Department further said it will provide Cyclone Hidaya updates as necessary.
Also Read: Kenya Met Clarifies Magnitude of Cyclone Hidaya Expected to Hit Mombasa
Rainfall to Continue in Other Parts of the Country
However, the Department warned that heavy rainfall of more than 40mm will continue pounding several parts of the country including the Lake Victoria Basin, the Rift Valley, Highlands West, and East of the Rift Valley including Nairobi area and Southeastern lowlands from Thursday 2-5 May 2024.
The heavy rainfall is also predicted to spread to northern parts of Kenya between 3rd and 5th of May 2024.
Additionally, strong southerly winds of more than 30 knots (15.4m/s) are predicted over the coastal region and parts of Northeastern Kenya on 2 May 2024.
“The strong winds are projected to exceed 40 knots (20.6m/s) on 3-6 May 2024. Large Ocean Waves more than 2m are predicted in the Indian Ocean from 2-6 May 2024,” Kenya Met warned.
The regions expected to receive heavy rainfall include: Nandi, Kericho, Bomet, Kakamega, Vihiga, Bungoma, Narok, Baringo, Nakuru, Trans- Nzoia, Uasin-Gishu, Elgeyo-Marakwet, West-Pokot, Kisumu, Homabay, Siaya, Migori, Busia, and Kisii.
Others are Nyamira, Nyandarua, Laikipia, Nyeri, Kirinyaga, Murang’a, Kiambu, Meru, Embu, Tharaka-Nithi, Nairobi, Machakos, Kitui, Makueni, Kajiado, Turkana, Samburu, Marsabit, Mandera, Wajir, Garissa and Isiolo Counties.
Also Read: Kindiki Issues Update on Cyclone Hidaya, Gives 2-Hour Ultimatum
Directive to Affected Kenyans
On the other hand, Mombasa, Tana-River, Kilifi, Lamu, Kwale, Taita-Taveta and Garissa counties will experience strong winds.
“Residents in all the mentioned areas are advised to be on the lookout for potential floods, flash floods and poor visibility,” the Department warned.
“The water levels in rivers, lakes and dams are expected to remain high. People 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 lightning strikes.”
The weatherman also warned that the strong winds may blow off roofs, uproot trees and cause structural damage.
Kenya Met noted that the significant large waves may affect marine activities and advised residents in landslide or mudslide prone areas to remain vigilant.
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