The Kenya Meteorological Department (Kenya Met) has issued an official clarification on the definition of a heat wave in the country, highlighting the conditions that warrant heat-health alerts in major urban centres.
According to the Kenya Meteorological Department, a heat wave is characterised by three or more consecutive days of extremely high daytime temperatures that exceed locally defined thresholds.
Such conditions are associated with heightened health risks, particularly for vulnerable populations such as children and the elderly.
“In the Kenyan context, a heat wave is defined as a period of three or more consecutive days of extremely high daytime temperatures that exceed locally determined thresholds and are associated with increased health risks,” the department noted in its statement shared on February 1.
Kenya Met on Heat Wave Thresholds for Major Cities
Based on extensive research using historical temperature data and health records from key cities, Kenya Met has proposed specific thresholds for issuing heat-health alerts.
In Nairobi, a heat wave is declared when daily maximum temperatures reach 32°C or higher for at least three consecutive days.
Kisumu, which typically experiences hotter conditions, has a threshold of 37°C or higher, while coastal Mombasa’s threshold is set at 36°C over the same period.
“These thresholds reflect local climate conditions and observed links between high temperatures and increased hospital visits, admissions, and mortality,” Kenya Met stated.
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The department emphasised that exceeding these limits can trigger emergency response measures to protect public health.
“When these temperatures are exceeded, they can be used to activate heat-health action plans and emergency response measures,” they said.
Residents are advised to stay hydrated, avoid direct sunlight during peak hours, and watch for signs of heat-related illnesses such as dehydration and heatstroke.
Public Awareness and Safety Measures
Kenya Met also addressed misinformation circulating on social media regarding heat wave alerts.
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“The public is urged to rely only on official communications from Kenya Met to avoid unnecessary panic,” the department clarified.
Experts have noted that understanding local climate variations is critical to defining heat waves, especially in urban centres where temperature patterns differ significantly.
Authorities and health facilities are encouraged to prepare for extreme heat events by increasing readiness and mobilising support for vulnerable groups.
“Timely action during extreme heat is essential in preventing adverse health outcomes and reducing strain on medical services,” they added.
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Useful breakdown. The 3-day threshold plus city-specific triggers (Nairobi 32°C, Kisumu 37°C, Mombasa 36°C) makes the alert criteria much clearer.