The Weatherman – Kenya Meteorological Department (KMD) has issued a stern warning as Tropical Storm IALY brews over the South-West Indian Ocean.
With the potential to intensify, the storm according to the weatherman poses huge risks to various regions across Kenya.
“The Kenya Meteorological Department (KMD) is closely monitoring Tropical Storm IALY, currently present over the South-West Indian Ocean,”
“With the potential to intensify, the storm poses significant risks to various regions across Kenya,” noted KMD.
The weatherman reported that rainfall is expected to escalate over the western half of the country and parts of the Highlands East of the Rift Valley, including the capital city Nairobi.
Additionally, the storm is likely to whip up large waves along the Indian Ocean coastline, posing hazards to marine activities.
“Rainfall is expected to escalate over the western half of the country and parts of the Highlands East of the Rift Valley, including the capital city Nairobi,”
“Additionally, the storm is likely to whip up large waves along the Indian Ocean coastline, posing hazards to marine activities,” reads part of a statement by.
Kenyans to Brace Themselves for Strong Winds and Heavy Rainfall
Residents in the eastern sector of the country are urged to brace themselves for strong southerly winds, while heavy rainfall off the coast may intermittently infiltrate inland areas.
Likewise, the weatherman reported that by the laws of physics, cyclones cannot venture very close to the equator, approximately within 5 degrees south or north, about 480 kilometers from the equatorial line.
KMD reassured the public that they are diligently monitoring the situation and will continue to provide updates as necessary.
“Important Note: By the laws of physics, cyclones cannot come very close to the equator (within 5 degrees south or 5 degrees north, approximately 480 km from the equator). KMD will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as necessary,” stated KMD.
In light of these developments, KMD informed Kenyans that it is imperative for citizens to stay informed and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety and well-being.
Also Read: Kenya Met Warns of Heavy Rains in 36 Counties
Heavy Rainfall and Strong Winds Advisory
As Tropical Storm IALY continues to affect the region, Kenya Met on 19th May 2024 issued an advisory regarding the expected heavy rainfall, strong winds, and large ocean waves.
The weatherman predicted heavy rainfall exceeding 30mm in 24 hours across several regions, including the Lake Victoria Basin, the Rift Valley, and the Highlands both west and east of the Rift Valley, as well as Nairobi.
Moreover, the rainfall is expected to intensify to more than 40mm in 24 hours between 20th and 21st May, affecting the same regions and the coastal areas.
Intensity is also expected to decrease inland by 22nd May but will increase along the coast until 24th May.
As such, residents in the mentioned areas should prepare for potential floods, flash floods, and poor visibility.
Water levels in rivers, lakes, and dams are expected to remain high according to the KMD update.
Also Read: Kenya Met Warns of Heavy Rains & Cold Nights in These Regions
Weatherman Issues Safety Precautions
KMD cautioned residents and the public at large to avoid driving or walking through moving water and open fields, and not seek shelter under trees or near grilled windows to reduce the risk of lightning strikes.
People in landslide-prone areas, particularly in hilly regions, were asked to remain vigilant as strong winds may cause structural damage, including blowing off roofs and uprooting trees.
KMD further said marine activities may be affected by large waves along the coast of Indian Ocean.
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