Kenya Meteorological Department Warns of Heavy Rains and Floods in Five Regions

The Kenya Meteorological Department has issued a warning about increased rainfall expected in several parts of the country over the next week.

In its latest weekly weather update released on Tuesday, March 17, the department said some regions will start the week with moderate rains. However, the rainfall is expected to become heavier from Thursday.

According to the report, some areas may also experience isolated heavy downpours, which could lead to flooding.

Regions likely to receive rain include Central Kenya, the Lake Victoria Basin, Western Kenya, the Rift Valley, the South-eastern lowlands, and the Coastal region.

In Western Kenya and the Lake Victoria Basin, counties such as Nandi, Kakamega, Vihiga, Bungoma, Siaya, Busia, and Baringo are expected to receive rainfall. Similar conditions are also expected in Nakuru, Trans Nzoia, Uasin Gishu, Elgeyo-Marakwet, West Pokot, Kisii, Nyamira, Kericho, Bomet, Kisumu, Homabay, Migori, and Narok.

Residents in Central Kenya counties, including Nyandarua, Laikipia, Nyeri, Kirinyaga, Murang’a, Kiambu, Meru, Embu, Tharaka-Nithi, and Nairobi, have also been advised to prepare for heavy rains.

The department explained that some areas in the highlands east of the Rift Valley may experience morning rains, followed by afternoon and night showers, with thunderstorms in some places.

At the Coast, counties such as Mombasa, Kilifi, Lamu, and Kwale, including the Tana Delta, are expected to receive showers at different times of the day.

While most parts of the country are likely to experience rain, northern Kenya will remain mostly hot and dry. Counties such as Samburu, Marsabit, Mandera, Wajir, Garissa, and Isiolo are expected to experience sunny conditions throughout the week.

Temperature Outlook

The weather department also noted that temperatures will remain high in some regions. Daytime temperatures above 30°C are expected in the Coastal, North-eastern, and North-western parts of Kenya.

On the other hand, colder nights are expected in some highland areas. Temperatures may drop below 10°C in parts of the Highlands east of the Rift Valley, the Central Rift Valley, sections of the North Rift, and areas near Mount Kilimanjaro.

Residents are advised to stay alert, especially in areas prone to flooding, as the rains intensify later in the week.