The Cause of Flooding in Kenya: Understanding the Rainfall Patterns

The devastating torrential rains and deadly floods that have ravaged Kenya since March have left a trail of destruction and despair in their wake. At least 169 people have lost their lives, with 91 still missing, as the country grapples with one of the most catastrophic natural disasters in recent memory.

The most tragic incident occurred on Monday when a blocked river tunnel under a railway line in southwestern Kenya burst, unleashing a flash flood that claimed the lives of at least 48 people. The heavy rains have displaced over 190,000 individuals and caused extensive damage to roads and infrastructure across the country.

The combination of Kenya’s seasonal weather patterns, human-induced climate change, and natural weather phenomena has led to the deadly deluge that has engulfed the nation. The “long rains” season, which typically lasts from March to May, has been particularly intense this year, with above-average rainfall predicted by the Kenya Meteorological Department.

The Indian Ocean Dipole, a climate system that influences sea surface temperatures in the Indian Ocean, has played a significant role in the extreme weather patterns experienced in Kenya. While some have attributed the floods to the El Nino weather phenomenon, experts suggest that the positive phase of the Indian Ocean Dipole and climate change are the primary drivers of the ongoing flood-inducing rainfall.

As the “long rains” season continues into June, the Kenya Meteorological Department warns of more heavy downpours, flooding in low-lying areas, and landslides in steep slopes. With the unpredictability of weather patterns in recent years, the people of Kenya remain on high alert as they brace for the relentless onslaught of nature’s fury.