The Kenya Meteorological Department has warned motorists, airport operators, and other road users to prepare for adverse weather conditions in July that may disrupt normal operations.
In an advisory issued on Tuesday, the weatherman cautioned that several parts of the country will experience fog formation, especially in areas with cold and cloudy conditions, which could pose a danger to motorists due to reduced visibility.
Motorists using the Nairobi–Naivasha Highway, particularly along the Kikuyu–Kinungi stretch, have been urged to exercise extreme caution while on the road.
Additionally, the Met Department warned that light rains expected in July will likely make roads slippery, increasing the risk of accidents.
Further, airport management and users have been advised to expect possible flight delays or disruptions, with operations at Wilson Airport and Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) likely to be affected by weather patterns.
“Fog formation in the areas that are expected to experience cold and cloudy conditions may pose a danger to motorists due to low visibility. Motorists should be careful while driving in these areas, especially along the Nairobi–Naivasha Highway and particularly on the Kikuyu–Kinungi stretch,” read part of the advisory.
“Light rains and drizzles may also cause roads to be slippery. All road users are advised to take utmost care to minimise accidents that may result from such weather conditions.”
Disease Outbreak
The weatherman has also warned residents in counties such as Nairobi, the Highlands East of the Rift Valley, parts of the Central and South Rift Valley, and parts of the Highlands West of the Rift Valley about a likely surge in respiratory illnesses due to the cold conditions.
Increased cases of asthma, pneumonia, flu, and the common cold are expected during this period as chilly and damp weather sets in. Residents have been urged to dress warmly and adhere to public health guidelines to prevent exposure to these illnesses.
The department also cautioned against the use of charcoal jikos in poorly ventilated homes, noting that they release carbon monoxide, a deadly gas that poses serious health risks when inhaled.
“To avoid contracting diseases, the general public is advised to dress warmly and to follow the advice of the Ministry of Health. They are also advised not to use charcoal jikos in poorly ventilated homes because they emit carbon monoxide gas, which is life-threatening if inhaled,” the advisory added.
However, the expected rainfall is anticipated to be conducive for agricultural production, particularly in the high-potential counties of the Lake Victoria Basin Region, Highlands West of the Rift Valley, as well as Central and parts of the Southern Rift Valley. There may, however, be incidences of crop damage by frost in parts of the Highlands East of the Rift Valley as the cold season reaches its peak during the month.
