By Daniel Brouse
Kenya’s first-ever cyclone, Cyclone Kenneth, made landfall in April 2019, bringing heavy rainfall and strong winds to parts of eastern Africa, including Kenya. While Kenya is not typically in the path of cyclones, the occurrence of Cyclone Kenneth was attributed to changing climate patterns in the Indian Ocean, which allowed the cyclone to form further south than usual.
Cyclone Kenneth highlighted the increasing vulnerability of African countries to extreme weather events, including tropical cyclones, due to climate change. Rising sea surface temperatures in the Indian Ocean, fueled by global warming, provide favorable conditions for cyclone formation and intensification. As a result, countries like Kenya may face heightened risks of cyclones and associated hazards, including heavy rainfall, flooding, and storm surges.
In addition to Cyclone Kenneth, Kenya experienced several historic floods in the past year, further underscoring the country’s susceptibility to climate-related disasters. These floods were attributed to various factors, including prolonged and intense rainfall, poor land management practices, deforestation, and inadequate infrastructure for flood control and drainage.
Climate change exacerbates the frequency and severity of extreme weather events, including floods, by altering rainfall patterns, increasing the intensity of storms, and raising sea levels. In Kenya, as in many other parts of the world, climate change is contributing to more frequent and intense rainfall events, leading to an increased risk of flooding and associated impacts on communities, infrastructure, agriculture, and ecosystems.
Addressing the impacts of climate change in Kenya requires a comprehensive approach that includes efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, adapt to changing climate conditions, improve disaster preparedness and response capabilities, and enhance resilience at the local, national, and regional levels. International cooperation and support are also essential to assist vulnerable countries like Kenya in addressing the challenges posed by climate change and building a sustainable future for all.
In 2024, the toll of flood-related incidents in Kenya has been devastating, with approximately 210 lives lost. Government data reveals that over 165,000 individuals have been displaced from their homes, and nearly 100 people are reported missing. The second ever hurricane, Hidaya, is expected to make landfall by May 4, 2024.