Assessment of Rising Water Levels of Rift Valley Lakes in Kenya: The Role of Meteorological Factors

Recent studies reveal that rising water levels in Kenya's Rift Valley lakes, particularly between 2016 and 2020, are strongly linked to increased seasonal rainfall—a finding with significant implications for climate science. The research, using statistical models like Generalized Linear Models (GLMs), demonstrates a clear correlation between meteorological factors such as rainfall and temperature and the observed lake level surges in Naivasha and Baringo. Forecasts suggest substantial increases in lake levels, particularly in Lake Baringo, which could pose challenges for local communities and ecosystems. This study provides empirical evidence to support climate-driven explanations for these phenomena, offering potential tools for predicting future water levels based on surface observations.

Muita, R. (2021). Assessment of Rising Water Levels of Rift Valley Lakes in Kenya: The Role of Meteorological Factors. Environmental Sciences and Ecology: Current Research (ESECR, 2(6), 1–9. https://doi.org/10.54026/esecr/1035