Marsabit residents urged to prepare for expected rains

By Silvio Nangori

Residents of Marsabit have been urged to prepare for the expected rains by preserving food, harvesting rainwater and preparing their farms.

During an exclusive interview with Radio Jangwani the Director of the weather forecasting department in Marsabit and Isiolo Counties, John Nguyo, said communities should begin preparing early to reduce the impact of possible disruptions caused by heavy rainfall.

Nguyo encouraged residents to use traditional food-preservation methods, including drying and storing meat. He said preserved food would help families cope if roads became impassable and access to markets was disrupted by flooding.

He also urged residents to prepare water pans and other storage facilities to harvest rainwater once the rains begin. According to Nguyo, harvested water could support domestic use, replenish groundwater and improve water availability in the region.

However, he warned residents that floodwater could become contaminated by human waste, dead livestock and other pollutants. He advised communities to treat harvested or surface water before drinking it to prevent waterborne diseases.

Nguyo said the expected rains could also provide opportunities for farmers and pastoralists if they prepared in advance. He urged farmers to prepare their land so they could take advantage of the rainfall when it arrives.

He added that improved rainfall could support the growth of grass, trees and other vegetation, helping provide pasture and feed for livestock.

Nguyo called on residents to follow updates from the agriculture and livestock departments, as well as other partners, to ensure they prepare appropriately for the expected weather conditions.