Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Kenyans.co.ke
Published on 2024-02-21 13:38:38
Robert Ouma, a Kenya Meteorological Department official based at the University of Nairobi, recently shed light on the cause of the ongoing heatwave in various parts of the country. In an interview with Citizen TV, Ouma explained that the escalating high temperatures are a result of a high-pressure system formed after the El Nino phenomenon. This system causes a cool wind from the north to blow southwards, leading to warm air in the south rising upwards towards the north, ultimately causing the current heatwave.
Ouma emphasized that the wave of energy passing through is responsible for the extreme temperatures that have been felt, making people think that a heatwave is occurring. He further described how the pressure systems in the north become more intense than those in the south during this period of the year. He attributed this to the sun being positioned more to the south than to the north, pushing the rain belt southwards.
According to Ouma, high temperatures are characteristic of this time of year, and it is not unusual to experience them. He noted that the high temperatures being observed in Nairobi are also being experienced in various other parts of the country, including regions currently receiving rainfall. However, he reassured that the temperatures are expected to subside from March into April with the onset of the rainy season.
The Kenya Meteorological Department had also warned of hot temperatures in several counties, including Nairobi, with Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday of that week being projected as the hottest days. The maximum temperature was forecasted to exceed 30°C in various counties across the country.
Ouma’s insights provide a valuable understanding of the current weather phenomena and how they are impacting various parts of Kenya. His explanation of the pressure systems and the influence of the El Nino phenomenon helps to demystify the ongoing heatwave and provide reassurance that the temperatures are expected to normalize with the onset of the rainy season.
As temperatures continue to rise and extreme weather events become more frequent, insights from meteorologists like Robert Ouma are crucial in helping the public understand the underlying causes and potential durations of these weather patterns. Whether it’s a heatwave, drought, or heavy rainfall, the ability to comprehend the factors at play allows individuals, communities, and governments to better prepare and respond to adverse weather conditions. Ouma’s expertise and explanation of the current heatwave in Kenya offer valuable knowledge for those seeking to understand and adapt to changing weather patterns.
Read the original article on Kenyans.co.ke
