The Kenya Meteorological Department has outlined disaster mitigation strategies ahead of the rainy season to prepare for changing climate patterns. Principal Meteorologist Joyce Kimutai emphasized the importance of engaging stakeholders and using historical climate data to inform weather forecasts. Recent high temperatures were discussed by Dr. David Gikungu as typical prior to the rains, highlighting the need for strategic preparations across various sectors.
The Kenya Meteorological Department has initiated disaster mitigation strategies in preparation for the forthcoming rainy season, as climate patterns continue to evolve. Principal Meteorologist and Climate Scientist Joyce Kimutai articulated the department’s commitment to keeping counties apprised of weather forecasts during a recent television interview. This process begins with generating weather forecasts that are disseminated to counties for additional analysis and strategic planning.
Following the initial distribution of forecasts, the department conducts participatory workshops, which engage stakeholders from various industries sensitive to weather changes. Kimutai asserted the significance of utilizing localized climate data to prepare for the rainy season. She explained that long-term observations of regional rainfall patterns allow meteorologists to establish baseline measurements for normals and deviations.
“We’ve looked at the climate of the area. The climate tells you what the normal rainfall is for this region,” she stated, underscoring the importance of data for accurate forecasting. The department employs a centralized system to relay information to specific regions, where experts analyze historical climate data to understand expected rainfall variations.
Kimutai provided an example, stating, “For example, in the lake region, if the normal is 120 millimetres, the above normal can be above that, reaching 200 or even 300 millimetres.” Such forecasts inform local stakeholders about possible weather fluctuations during the rainy season, directing their preparation efforts accordingly. The importance of collaboration with local communities, particularly farmers, is emphasized to facilitate informed decision-making in response to climate forecasts.
On March 4, Dr. David Gikungu, Director of the Kenya Meteorological Department, discussed the recent elevated temperatures observed across the country. Highs have reached 32°C in the Rift Valley Highlands and exceeded 36°C in other regions, a phenomenon noted as typical prior to the beginning of the long rains. Dr. Gikungu indicated that the shifting position of the sun above the equator contributes to these temperature surges and the consequent atmospheric dynamics influencing weather patterns.
“The sun is moving towards its position above the equator,” he noted, explaining how this movement generates significant heating and lowers atmospheric pressure, resulting in varied weather conditions across different regions. This complexity influences the potential for heavy rainfall in some areas while creating drier conditions in others, necessitating the department’s proactive approach to disaster mitigation.
In conclusion, the Kenya Meteorological Department’s proactive measures in forecasting and engaging with stakeholders play a critical role in mitigating climate-related disasters. By utilizing historical climate data and fostering collaboration with local communities, the department aims to enhance preparedness for adverse weather conditions. The recent high temperatures underscore the urgency of these preparations as the country approaches its rainy season.
Original Source: www.kenyans.co.ke
