The Kenya Meteorological Department has cautioned Nairobi residents over the potential increase in respiratory diseases such as asthma in the next three months.
In its seasonal forecast released on Sunday, May 1, Kenya Met noted that the cold season would be experienced in Nairobi and other parts of the country.
Consequently, residents were advised to keep warm during the next three months.
"Respiratory diseases like asthma, pneumonia, flu, and the common cold are likely to increase in Nairobi County and the Highlands East of the Rift Valley due to the expected cold conditions.
"The public in these areas is advised to dress warmly and follow advice from the Ministry of Health. They are also advised to avoid using charcoal jikos in poorly ventilated houses as they may produce carbon monoxide gas that is lethal when inhaled," read the advisory in part.
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On the other hand, Kenya Met also noted that there could be an increase in Malaria cases in the Coastal regions due to the predicted warmer-than-average temperatures.
"Respiratory diseases and eye infections are likely to occur in the Northeastern region due to dust storms as a result of the windy and dry conditions expected," the weatherman added in its advisory.
"Health authorities are therefore advised to pre-position and redistribute medical supplies and insect-treated nets in the affected areas."
Likewise, for motorists plying the Nairobi-Nakuru Highway, fog formation is expected during the next 3 months.
"Fog formation in areas that are expected to experience cold and cloudy conditions may pose danger for motorists due to low visibility," the weatherman added.
"Care should be taken while driving in these areas, especially along the Nairobi-Nakuru Highway and particularly on the Kikuyu-Kinungi stretch in Kiambu County.
Weather Predictions
Generally, near to above-average rainfall is projected for most parts of the country, including the Highlands west of the Rift Valley (Rift Valley and Western Kenya counties).
Similar rainfall patterns will be experienced in the Lake Victoria Basin region (Nyanza), the Rift Valley, parts of the Highlands east of the Rift Valley (Mt Kenya counties), and the northwestern region.
The coastal region is expected to receive near-average rainfall, with a tendency toward below-average amounts.
