Meteorological Department Issues Fire Alert

NYANDARUAA, Kenya, Jan 28 (KNA)- Residents of Nyandarua County have been cautioned to be careful while burning weeds as they prepare their farms to prevent the fires from spreading to the local forests, following the prevailing dry weather conditions.

Area Ecosystem Conservator David Muigai said the region was currently witnessing severe drought and windy conditions.

“This has rapidly dried grasses, herbs and bushes, thus increasing fire danger in forests and national parks,” he warned.

While declaring this year’s fire season, Muigai said fire patrols had been intensified with forest communities being encouraged to take care while preparing their shambas, and to participate in forest fire suppression should it occur.

“We had our first fire today in the national park near the border with Geta forest. Luckily, the fire burned out itself. Our officers have been put on high alert and local administrators are playing a great role in community sensitization,” added Muigai.

County Director of Meteorological Department Mischek Mutembei noted that Olkalou, Ndaragwa and Ol Jororok areas will experience sunny mornings, with hot daytime temperatures alternating with very cold nights.

“Wear warm clothes at night and avoid respiratory infections during this forecast season as we expect nights to be colder,” warned Mutembei.

He said day temperatures are expected to be as high as 25 degrees Celsius, with Magumu and Geta areas expecting as low as six degrees Celsius at night.

“Areas of Geta, Githioro, Wanjohi and Gathabai will experience cloudy conditions in the morning, breaking into sunny intervals in the afternoons of Saturday and Sunday,” added the County Director of Meteorological Department.