Temperature set to hit high of 40 degrees in Nothern Kenya this month

By: Riyaq Ahmed

NAIROBI—The weatherman has issued the first warning for a possible heatwave in Kenya.

Peter Ambenje said bursts of extreme heat will hit northern Kenya counties this month and could trigger the weather condition.

“The expected high daytime time temperatures (30 – 40°C) in Northwestern and Northeastern parts of the country may give rise to heat waves that are a potential health risk,” the head of the meteorological services said yesterday in a month-long forecast.

This would be the first time Kenya has experienced a heatwave. Ambenje said drought in these areas will worsen and sandstorms may also occur in some areas. The regions affected by the warning are Moyale, Marsabit, Wajir, Mandera Garbatulla, Garissa Lodwar, Lokichoggio and Lokitaung.

Ambenje said the Coast strip will also experience high temperatures throughout the month.

A heat wave is a period of abnormally and uncomfortably hot and usually humid weather.

Heat waves are generally the result of trapped air. As opposed to cycling around the globe, it simply stayed put and warmed like the air inside an oven.

High-pressure systems force air downward. This force prevents air near the ground from rising. The sinking air acts like a cap. It traps warm ground air in place. Without rising air, there was no rain, and nothing to prevent the hot air from getting hotter.

During the period of heatwaves,avoid high-protein foods and meat. Eating these can increase your body’s heat production.

Also drink lots of water. Unless you have a condition that is affected by changing how much fluid you drink, it’s a good idea to keep as hydrated as possible.