NAIROBI, Kenya — The Kenya Meteorological Department (KMD) has issued an advisory warning of heavy rainfall expected across several parts of the country from Sunday, August 17, 2025, through Tuesday, August 19, 2025.
In a statement released on Friday evening, the KMD indicated that the rainfall, which is likely to exceed 20 millimeters within 24 hours, will initially affect the Lake Victoria Basin, the Rift Valley, and the Highlands West of the Rift Valley.
The rains are then expected to spread to the Highlands East of the Rift Valley, including Nairobi, on Sunday.
“The rainfall pounding parts of the Lake Victoria Basin, the Rift Valley and Highlands West of Rift Valley is expected to intensify to more than 20mm in 24hrs and spread to the Highlands East of Rift Valley on Sunday 17th August, 2025,” the weather authority stated.
The downpours are expected to gradually ease from Wednesday, August 20, 2025. The advisory also noted that strong southerly winds, exceeding 25 knots (12.9 m/s), will persist over the eastern sector, posing additional risks.
Counties expected to be impacted include Kisumu, Homa Bay, Siaya, Migori, Busia, Kisii, Nyamira, Nandi, Kericho, Bomet, Kakamega, Vihiga, Bungoma, Narok, Baringo, Nakuru, Trans Nzoia, Uasin Gishu, Elgeyo-Marakwet, West Pokot, Turkana, Samburu, Marsabit, Nyandarua, Laikipia, Nyeri, Kirinyaga, Nairobi, Murang’a, Kiambu, Meru, Embu, and Tharaka-Nithi.
Caution to residents
The KMD has urged residents in the affected areas to remain vigilant against flash floods, poor visibility, and lightning strikes.
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The department warned that sudden flooding may occur downstream, even in areas where it is not raining.
“People leaving downstream rivers and along seasonal rivers should be careful since water may appear suddenly even though it may not be raining within the area,” the KMD cautioned.
Motorists have been advised to avoid driving through moving water, while pedestrians should refrain from walking across flooded areas or seeking shelter under trees and near grilled windows.
The advisory also warned that the strong winds could blow off roofs, uproot trees, and cause structural damage.
