Kenya Meteorological Department Outlines Disaster Mitigation…

The Kenya Meteorological Department has implemented disaster mitigation measures ahead of adverse weather, as explained by Principal Meteorologist Joyce Kimutai. The department disseminates forecasts to counties and conducts workshops with stakeholders, while also emphasizing engagement with local communities. High temperatures observed over the last two months are a typical precursor to the rainy season, according to Director Dr. David Gikungu.

The Kenya Meteorological Department has proactively established disaster mitigation strategies in anticipation of adverse weather conditions, striving to equip the nation for evolving climate patterns. In a recent television interview, Principal Meteorologist and Climate Scientist Joyce Kimutai elucidated the procedure for disseminating weather forecasts to counties, which facilitates informed planning and preparedness for climate variability.

Kimutai emphasized the significance of participatory workshops that engage stakeholders from weather-sensitive industries to collectively analyze data for effective preparations. Understanding historical climate data allows the department to offer informed projections. For instance, specific regions, like the lake area, have established normal rainfall averages, which guide expectations for upcoming seasons.

The dissemination process is centralized, with information thoroughly evaluated before being tailored to regional specifics. According to Kimutai, if a region’s normal rainfall is set at 120 millimeters, forecasts predicting above-normal conditions may suggest totals exceeding 200 or 300 millimeters. Most days within a specified season are expected to reflect increased rainfall compared to historical norms.

Importantly, the department prioritizes stakeholder engagement, particularly with local communities and farmers, to ensure collaborative decision-making. By fostering these relationships, Kimutai asserts that the risks posed by extreme weather can be considerably alleviated.

Dr. David Gikungu, Director of the Kenya Meteorological Department, also addressed the recent elevation in temperatures recorded across the country, particularly since December. Reported temperatures have marked highs of 32°C in regions encompassing the Highlands East of the Rift Valley, with certain areas surpassing 36°C.

Gikungu clarified that such temperature fluctuations are typical preceding the onset of the long rainy season. He attributed these high temperatures to the sun’s migration toward the equator, which leads to substantial warming and decreased atmospheric pressure, consequently impacting weather variability by generating heightened atmospheric instability that can result in heavy rainfall in certain regions alongside drier conditions in others.

In conclusion, the Kenya Meteorological Department is taking significant measures to prepare for the upcoming rainy season by disseminating timely weather forecasts and engaging with local communities and stakeholders. Through workshops and collaboration, potential risks associated with extreme weather can be mitigated, ensuring better preparedness across various sectors. Furthermore, the observed high temperatures leading up to the rainy season are a normal occurrence that requires close monitoring and adaptability.

Original Source: www.kenyans.co.ke