Farmers across Kenya should prepare for a short break in the ongoing rains after next week as weather conditions begin to shift. The Kenya Meteorological Department says rainfall will remain active during the first half of March before a temporary dry spell develops later in the month.
Acting Director Edward Muriuki explained that the change will occur as the Madden–Julian Oscillation moves into a phase that limits cloud formation and rainfall over the region. The Madden–Julian Oscillation is a large-scale tropical weather system that travels around the equator and influences rainfall patterns.
According to the department, the dry spell expected in the second half of March will not last long. Meteorologists project that rains will return toward the end of March as the long rains season gains strength across the country.
April is expected to record the peak of the long rains season, with many areas likely to receive widespread rainfall. Muriuki warned that some regions may also experience isolated heavy downpours during this peak period.
The rains are forecast to reduce in most parts of the country by late May. However, areas around the Lake Victoria basin, the central Rift Valley, the highlands west of the Rift Valley and the Coastal region may continue receiving rainfall into June.
Weather experts say farmers should use the early March rains effectively while preparing for the brief mid-month dry spell.
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