The Kenya Meteorological Department has issued a warning for Kenyans to brace themselves for dry and sunny conditions prevailing across most regions of the country throughout this week.
In a bulletin released on Tuesday, February 20, the meteorological agency forecasted that over 29 counties would experience exceptionally high daytime temperatures exceeding 30°C for the entire week.
These counties encompass Nairobi, Turkana, Samburu, Marsabit, Mandera, Wajir, Isiolo, Garissa, Tana River, Lamu, Kilifi, Mombasa, Kwale, Taita Taveta, Kajiado, Makueni, Kitui, and Machakos, among others.
Furthermore, the Weatherman highlighted that regions in the South Rift Valley, Lake Victoria Basin, Highlands East/West of the Rift Valley, Southeastern lowlands, Coast, and Northeastern Kenya might encounter light to moderate rainfall.
"While high daytime temperatures exceeding 30°C are anticipated in numerous counties, certain areas within these counties may also experience low nighttime temperatures dropping below 10°C," stated the Meteorological Department.
"Be prepared for fluctuating weather conditions this week!" added the weather forecast.
The public has been advised to stay hydrated and shield themselves from the intense sun rays during the scorching daytime periods, while also ensuring adequate warmth for the cooler nights.
This advisory arrives amidst reports of Nairobi continuing to endure unusually high temperatures, prompting discussions on social media platforms like X (formerly Twitter) and Facebook.
Users expressed their discomfort with the prevailing conditions, with one user, G Juma, lamenting, "The sun rays hitting the ground in Nairobi are something else... The worst is the heat during the day and the worst heat during the night!"
Another user, Karen Njeri, compared Nairobi's heat to Mombasa's, stating, "Nairobi just became Mombasa... because what in the heat is this? Nairobi is literally an oven. Been taking cold showers but still sweating like hell at night!"
The persistent high temperatures have been linked to various factors, including climate change and greenhouse gas emissions, prompting calls from the World Meteorological Organization for urgent action to safeguard the planet.
"If we act now, we can limit climate change and preserve a livable planet. We have the knowledge, tools, and resources to secure a livable, sustainable future for all," emphasized the organization in a recent statement.