A sudden and powerful storm hit Kisumu on Thursday evening, causing widespread destruction and power outages. Trees were uprooted, billboards and walls were brought down, and power lines were severed, leaving residents without electricity. Several vehicles were crushed by falling trees, and residents described being caught off guard by the sudden storm.
The storm caused significant damage to property, but the value of the damage has not yet been established. Residents reported being startled by the sudden onset of the storm, with one resident describing the experience as shocking. The rain started heavily, accompanied by hailstones, and the wind swept things away, knocking down billboards and causing widespread destruction.
The Kenya Meteorological Department had forecast the start of the rainy season in the western region, with rainfall expected to intensify in connection with the El Niño weather phenomenon. The department warned of continued rainfall across more than 20 counties, with strong winds also forecast for parts of northern Kenya.
In response to the destruction, multiple agencies are working together to restore the city. Fred Mariwa, Governor Anyang' Nyong'o's adviser on urban planning and the acting city manager for Kisumu County, confirmed that drainage pipes and sewage channels were being cleared to reduce the risk of flooding.
The Kenya Meteorological Department's forecast covered a wide area, with rainfall expected across western, Rift Valley, central, northern, and coastal regions. Some parts of West Pokot, Siaya, Elgeyo Marakwet, Bungoma, Kakamega, Nakuru, Trans Nzoia, Kericho, Kisii, Homabay, Kisumu, Mandera, Wajir, Marsabit, Nakuru, Nyandarua, Meru, Nyeri, Embu, Kirinyaga, Tharaka Nithi, Kwale, Mombasa, Kilifi, and Lamu counties were expected to experience rains.
The department's forecast maps indicated light to moderate rainfall in most areas, with the heaviest accumulations anticipated in the western Lake Victoria basin, the Rift Valley highlands, and the central highlands around Mount Kenya. Rain was also forecast to extend to parts of the coast and out over the Indian Ocean.
The Kenya Meteorological Department also flagged a danger for the northern counties, warning of strong southerly to southeasterly winds of above 25 knots (12.5m/s) expected over parts of Turkana, Samburu, and Marsabit Counties. Residents were advised to take necessary precautions to ensure their safety.
Key points
- The storm caused significant damage to property in Kisumu, Kenya.
- The Kenya Meteorological Department warned of continued rainfall across more than 20 counties.
- Multiple agencies are working together to restore the city and reduce the risk of flooding.
