Kenya Power has issued a warning of potential power blackouts and disruptions as heavy rains continue to drench the country, threatening the integrity of power distribution infrastructure.
The electricity distribution company cautioned that power supply interruptions could occur due to damage caused by floods and fallen power lines.
Additionally, the collapse of electricity poles during strong winds, flash floods, or mudslides could further hamper the distribution of electricity.
The alert comes in the wake of a heavy rainfall warning issued by the Kenya Meteorological Department covering most parts of the country, effective from today, Tuesday, April 2.
According to forecasts released on Monday, April 1, heavy downpours are expected to hit various regions, including Central and Western Kenya, Rift Valley, Southeast lowlands, Coast, Northeast, and Northwest between April 2 and April 8.
Authorities have advised citizens to brace themselves for potential flooding in these areas, with high temperatures predicted in counties such as Turkana, Marsabit, Mandera, Wajir, Isiolo, Garissa, Tana River, Lamu, Kilifi, Mombasa, and Kwale.
Daytime temperatures are anticipated to soar above 30°C over the next seven days, with night-time temperatures expected to remain high, exceeding 25°C, particularly along the Coast and in North-Eastern Kenya.
Most parts of Kenya are currently experiencing the onset of the long rain season, which typically spans from mid-March to May.
Residents in the affected areas have been urged to remain vigilant for potential floods, which may unexpectedly arise in areas where heavy rainfall has not been recorded.
Authorities have advised against driving or walking in moving water, as well as seeking shelter under trees or near grilled windows to minimize the risk of lightning strikes.
The forecasted strong winds also pose a threat, capable of blowing off roofs, uprooting trees, and causing structural damage.
The cautionary statement issued by Kenya Power coincides with ongoing governmental efforts aimed at mitigating power disruptions across the nation.
Members of Parliament have initiated measures to dismantle Kenya Power's monopoly by proposing reforms that would allow Kenyans the freedom to connect to electricity without being bound to purchase meters exclusively from the utility firm.
According to the National Assembly Energy Committee, a legislative Bill is in the works, aimed at diversifying the market for electricity meters by facilitating the involvement of multiple licensed entities in their sale.
Moreover, Kenya is poised to introduce reforms that would permit private entities entering the electricity distribution sector to import power from neighbouring countries.
This initiative, championed by the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA), seeks to introduce competition into the market, compelling power producers to re-evaluate wholesale tariffs.
