NAIROBI, Kenya: Authorities and disaster-management officials are warning that El Niño-related weather conditions could have a significant effect on households across Nairobi, with estimates suggesting that about 100,000 households could face impacts.

The warning has placed renewed attention on the city’s preparedness for heavy rainfall and the disruption that can accompany extreme weather.

Parts of Nairobi can be particularly vulnerable to flooding when intense rain overwhelms drainage systems or affects areas close to rivers and other waterways. Such events can damage homes, disrupt transport and create difficulties for residents.

The projected impact has increased pressure on local authorities to strengthen preparations and ensure that communities at greater risk receive timely information.

Residents in vulnerable areas are being encouraged to remain alert to official weather and emergency warnings, particularly during periods of heavy rainfall.

Emergency planning can help reduce the effects of severe weather by allowing authorities to identify vulnerable communities, prepare response teams and organise assistance before conditions deteriorate.

The potential impact on such a large number of households makes preparedness especially important for Nairobi.

Officials and local communities will continue to watch weather developments closely as they assess the possible effects of El Niño conditions across the capital.