RAINY SEASON CONTIGENCY PLAN

Rainy Season Contingency Plan

Executive Summary

There are two distinct rainy seasons that occur in Kenya, one in the spring months of March to May, which is locally referred to as the 'long rainy' season. April is the wettest month during this period bringing upwards of 20.32cm of rain on average. The other rainy period occurs between mid-October to mid-December, the period referred to locally as the 'short rainy’ season. November sees approximately 13cm of rain. During the rest of the year, around 6cm a month can be expected. February sees the most sunshine in Nairobi, with about ten hours of daylight. Half a year later, in August, sunshine lasts for about five or six hours. It should be noted that in recent years the seasons and rainfall have become less predictable.

The Outlook

According to Kenya Meteorological Department, rainfall is expected over the Highlands East and West of the Rift Valley, the Lake Victoria Basin, the South and Central Rift Valley and North-western Kenya as well as over some parts of the Coast and North-eastern Kenya. Isolated storms are expected over the above-mentioned areas with the exception of the Coast.

Risks

 Reduced visibility                       Increase driving risks

 Damage to buildings                   Damage to infrastructure

 Flush flood                           Disrupted power supply

 Landslides                          Disrupted communication

 Disrupted transport                   Displacement of people

 Trigger alarm system

 Electrocution in flooded places with fallen/naked power lines.

Potential Impacts

• As the rainy season began in Nairobi, most roads became impassable, with heavy traffic experienced on busy routes such as Thika Road, Jogoo Road and Lang’ata Road.
• Flash floods are very likely to occur in western Kenya, central Rift Valley and central Highlands due to the expected enhanced rainfall in these areas. Flash floods may lead to transport disruption, especially in areas where the roads become impassable when it rains. 
• Slippery roads and poor visibility during rainstorms may also pose a danger to motorists and pedestrians.
• When floods rise and strong winds take down powerlines, electric shocks are possible hazards. 
• In areas expected to receive enhanced rainfall, water-borne diseases such as malaria are likely emerge. 
• Disruption of power supply.

General recommendations during rain

• Residents in flood prone areas are advised to be on the lookout for flashfloods and plan their route selection. 
• People should avoid driving, wading or walking through any fast-moving waters. 
• Be wary of slippery roads and poor visibility. 
• Watch out for stagnant water, which is the prime breeding ground for mosquitoes. 
• Be aware of your drinking water sources. Water-borne diarrheal diseases are very common during the rainy season. 
• Prepare your car in advance of a rainstorm by making sure windshield wipers are in good working condition. Tire treads should also be the proper depth to provide good grip on wet roads. 
• Get your roof and gutters inspected to ensure good condition before the rain falls. Remove leaves or debris from gutters. 
• Stay away from electricity poles. 
• Prevent electric shocks and fatalities by fixing issues in your home before the rains. 
• When walking on the roads, watch out for open manholes or sharp objects on the road that may not be easily visible.
• Don’t touch wires from fallen electricity poles