The effects of the anticipated El Niño weather phenomenon may already be emerging in some parts of Kenya, where two major bush fires have been reported.
On Mt Kenya, a fire has been raging since September 1, raising concerns over its impact on the mountain’s tree cover, wildlife and wider ecosystem.
Firefighters and conservation groups have been battling the blaze for days, with up to 17 fire points visible at one time.
High winds have been spreading the fire towards Lake Alice and Lake Ellis, hampering efforts to contain the blaze, which has consumed large sections of vegetation.
The fires could be linked to the drastic weather conditions associated with El Niño, which can increase the risk of wildfires in some parts of the world by causing severe heat and prolonged dry spells that turn vegetation into dry kindling.
A fire fighter works to contain fire on Mt Kenya /SCREENGRAB
El Niño is characterised by warmer-than-average sea surface temperatures in the Pacific Ocean, which can disrupt normal rainfall patterns and trigger prolonged dry conditions in vulnerable areas.
High temperatures and a lack of water can dry out trees, grasses and shrubs, making them more susceptible to fire.
In areas that receive rainfall, hot and unstable air can also create more lightning strikes, potentially triggering fires in dry forests.
On Sunday night, the Kenya Red Cross reported a bush fire along the Voi-Taveta Road that had spread into nearby vegetation.
The emergency response agency said the fire was initially reported to have been caused by a fuel tanker that lost control and overturned, spilling fuel that ignited.
“Note: earlier reports described this as a tanker fire. Ground teams have since confirmed it is a bush fire,” the Kenya Red Cross said.
The agency said it was coordinating the response with the Kenya Wildlife Service and the county fire brigade as teams worked to contain the fire.
The Kenya Red Cross said it would issue further updates as the situation develops.
Beyond the fires, the agency said on September 5 that it was working with the national and county governments and other partners to stay ahead of risks associated with El Niño.
It said the weather conditions posed risks including flooding, displacement, landslides and building collapses.
The agency urged Kenyans to report blocked drainage systems, heed SMS alerts and follow instructions on where to seek safety.
It also cautioned residents against entering or crossing floodwaters.
“No lives should be lost,” Kenya Red Cross Secretary General Ahmed Idris said.
