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Message: [QUOTE="Nehanda, post: 26788, member: 2262"] The Met department encourages farmers to talk with local agricultural officers about when to plant crops. Rains should arrive across Kenya within two weeks. Dr. David Gikungu from Kenya Meteorological Services reports the rain will start in the western, central, and southern parts of the country. These areas can expect normal to heavy rainfall amounts. The weather outlook published Saturday shows good news for farming regions. Areas with high agricultural potential include highlands near Rift Valley, Lake Victoria basin, and southeastern lowlands. The rain creates excellent growing conditions after long dry periods. Dr. Gikungu suggests farmers contact agricultural authorities for specific farming recommendations. Many Kenyans will welcome the moisture after dealing with extreme dryness and dust. The rain brings risks along with benefits, including possible flash floods in cities with poor drainage. Rivers might overflow their banks during heavy downpours. The long rain season typically begins between the second and third week of March. Nairobi, Kiambu, Embu, Nyandarua and many central counties should prepare for rainfall soon. Additional regions expecting rain include Laikipia, Nyeri, Kirinyaga, Murang'a, Meru, and Tharaka Nithi. Southeastern areas like Kitui, Machakos, Makueni, Kajiado, and Taita Taveta face similar timelines. These areas might experience brief dry periods after initial rainfall. Western counties such as Siaya, Kisumu, Homa Bay, and Migori should expect similar patterns. The rain extends to Kisii, Nyamira, Trans Nzoia, Baringo, Uasin Gishu and Elgeyo Marakwet. West Pokot, Nandi, Nakuru, Narok, Kericho and Bomet join the list. Kakamega, Vihiga, Bungoma, and Busia complete the western rainfall zone. The coastal region faces different conditions than other parts of Kenya. Northeastern areas, including Mandera, Marsabit, Isiolo, Wajir, and Garissa, should expect less rainfall. These regions will see scattered showers followed by extended dry spells. Weather experts link the coming rain to the Madden-Julian Oscillation. This natural pattern moves clouds and storms from west to east around the world near the equator. The cycle repeats every 30 to 60 days throughout the year. Areas under MJO influence see increased storms and rainfall. Regions the pattern leaves behind become drier and hotter than normal. Dr. Gikungu explains the MJO enters Phase 2 by mid-March, possibly bringing early rain to parts of Kenya. [/QUOTE]

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