Kenya Meteorological Department Outlines Disaster Mitigation Strategies Ahead of Rainy Season

The Kenya Meteorological Department has initiated disaster mitigation measures to prepare for upcoming adverse weather conditions. Principal Meteorologist Joyce Kimutai explained that forecasts are generated and disseminated to counties, followed by participatory workshops with stakeholders. The KMD’s proactive approach includes analyzing historical climate data and emphasizing community collaboration to ensure informed decision-making and risk mitigation.

The Kenya Meteorological Department (KMD) has outlined essential measures for disaster mitigation in anticipation of adverse weather conditions, ensuring national preparedness for changing climate patterns. Principal Meteorologist and Climate Scientist Joyce Kimutai shared insights on how KMD keeps counties abreast of weather forecasts during a television interview. This process begins with the generation of forecasts that are disseminated to counties for further analysis and planning.

Subsequently, participatory workshops are conducted, gathering various stakeholders from weather-sensitive sectors to create actionable information guiding preparations. According to Kimutai, understanding local climate normals is crucial, stating that the historical climate data establishes what constitutes normal rainfall levels for different regions. For instance, if a region’s normal rainfall is 120 millimeters, above normal expectations may range from 200 to 300 millimeters.

Furthermore, the KMD operates through a centralized system before delivering forecast information to specific regions for detailed examination. Experts analyze the historical climate data to discern average high and low temperatures characteristic of each area. Kimutai asserted, “For example, in the lake region, if the normal is 120 millimeters, the above normal can be above that, reaching 200 or even 300 millimeters.”

In addition to projecting rainfall patterns, Kimutai emphasized stakeholder engagement to evaluate forecasts’ impact on various economic sectors. The KMD prioritizes collaboration with local communities, such as farmers, to facilitate informed decision-making, believing that this approach can significantly reduce potential risks from extreme weather events.

On March 4, Dr. David Gikungu, Director of KMD, explained the considerable high temperatures witnessed across the country in recent months. He noted that the temperatures, which have reached up to 36 degrees Celsius in various areas since December, are typical preceding the long rainy season. Dr. Gikungu remarked that this phenomenon is linked to the sun’s position over the equator, leading to increased atmospheric instability and varying weather patterns across regions.

In conclusion, the Kenya Meteorological Department is actively implementing disaster mitigation strategies in preparation for the rainy season. With a focus on collaboration with local stakeholders and thorough analysis of climatic data, the department strives to enhance national resilience against extreme weather patterns. Through informed forecasting and community engagement, the risks associated with adverse weather can be effectively managed. Dr. Gikungu’s insights also highlight the significance of understanding local climate dynamics in anticipating normal and abnormal weather phenomena.

Original Source: www.kenyans.co.ke