The Kenya Meteorological Department has cautioned citizens across several regions to prepare for heavy rainfall over the next five days, beginning Friday, September 5, and lasting through Tuesday, September 10.
In its latest weekly advisory, the agency revealed that moderate to intense showers will hit the Highlands both east and west of the Rift Valley, the Lake Victoria Basin, as well as parts of northwestern Kenya and the Rift Valley corridor.
Counties that should expect significant rainfall include Kisumu, Siaya, Homa Bay, Migori, Kisii, Nyamira, Trans Nzoia, Uasin Gishu, Baringo, Elgeyo Marakwet, Nandi, Nakuru, Kericho, Bomet, Narok, Kakamega, Vihiga, Bungoma, Busia, and West Pokot.
The department noted that morning showers are expected, with storms becoming more intense in the afternoons. Residents in low-lying and flood-prone areas were urged to stay vigilant due to the risk of flash floods and thunderstorms.
Meanwhile, the Highlands East region—including Nyandarua, Laikipia, Nyeri, Murang’a, Kiambu, Meru, Embu, Tharaka Nithi, Kirinyaga, and Nairobi—should anticipate afternoon downpours after cloudy and sunny intervals in the mornings. Saturday, September 6, is predicted to see the most intense rainfall in these areas.
However, the weather outlook showed that the North-Eastern region and South-Eastern lowlands will remain largely dry during the forecast period.
Apart from the rainfall advisory, Kenya Met also warned of chilly nighttime conditions in parts of Central and Rift Valley counties. Temperatures are projected to plummet to as low as 5°C, particularly in Nyandarua, Nyeri, Kiambu, Meru, and surrounding areas.
Cold weather is also expected in western counties including Kisumu, Siaya, Kakamega, and Vihiga.
Additionally, strong southerly winds exceeding 12.8 metres per second are forecasted to sweep across coastal areas, the South-Eastern lowlands, North-Eastern, and parts of Northwestern Kenya.
Residents in these zones are advised to exercise caution, especially those involved in fishing and other outdoor activities.
