Kenya: Adverse weather forecast across northern, southern, and western regions through at least Feb. 29

Severe weather is forecast across parts of northern, southern, and western Kenya through at least Feb. 29. The Kenya Meteorological Department has issued a heavy rainfall alert warning that daily rainfall totals of more than 2 cm (0.8 inches) are expected over the South Rift Valley, Lake Victoria Basin, and central and western highlands before spreading to the southeast lowlands Feb. 27-28. The heavy rainfall will likely be accompanied by strong winds, especially in northwestern regions. The heavy rainfall alert covers the following 27 counties: Bomet, Bungoma, Busia, Homa Bay, Kajiado, Kakamega, Kericho, Kiambu, Kisii, Kisumu, Machakos, Marsabit, Migori, Murang'a. Nairobi, Nakuru, Nandi, Narok, Nyamira, Nyeri, Siaya, Taita-Taveta, Trans-Nzoia, Turkana, Uasin Gishu, Vihiga, and West Pokot. Officials will likely issue new alerts or update/rescind existing advisories as weather conditions change over the coming days.

Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger flooding in low-lying communities near rivers, streams, and creeks. Urban flooding is also possible in developed areas with easily overwhelmed stormwater drainage systems. Sites downstream from large reservoirs or rivers may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall. Landslides are possible in hilly or mountainous areas, especially where heavy rainfall has saturated the soil.

Authorities could issue mandatory evacuation orders for flood-prone communities over the coming days. Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are possible where significant flooding or landslides impact utility networks.

Floodwaters and debris flows may render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around affected areas. Ponding on road surfaces could cause hazardous driving conditions on regional highways. Authorities could temporarily close some low-lying routes that become inundated by floodwaters.

Localized business disruptions may occur in low-lying areas; some businesses might not operate at full capacity because of flood damage to facilities, possible evacuations, and some employees' inability to reach work sites.