Nairobi: South Nyanza Meteorological Officer Naphtali Odhoch has announced that the region is set to experience increased rainfall from September to January next year. The rains are expected to commence in parts of Rongo and Homa Bay shortly, before extending to other areas of the region.
According to Kenya News Agency, the Kenya Meteorological Service Authority has released a national climate outlook forum, offering a forecast of rain distribution ranging from light to heavy across the Counties of Homa Bay and Migori. Odhoch emphasized that the weather forecast will aid disaster management agencies, including the Kenya Red Cross and the Migori County Government, in preparing for potential floods.
In anticipation of possible flooding, Migori County has earmarked a budget of Sh44.2 million for emergency preparedness and response in the 2026/2027 financial year. Odhoch also advised local farmers to begin preparing their lands for the short planting season to capitalize on the expected rains for optimal crop production.
Meanwhile, Migori Red Cross Coordinator Ms. Marselah Nekesa highlighted ongoing collaborations with the county government and partners to prepare for the impending El Ni±o rains. Ms. Nekesa noted that low-lying areas of Nyatike Sub County have been identified as flood-prone. Efforts are underway to establish rescue centers to serve as emergency points and coordination hubs for those affected by floods, particularly in regions adjacent to Lake Victoria and major rivers like the Migori and Kuja.
‘We are in the process of identifying decent and accessible rescue centers as we prepare for the El Ni±o rains this September all the way to January 2027,’ Nekesa stated. However, she clarified that schools will not be considered as rescue centers to prevent disruptions during the exam period.
