NAIROBI, Kenya — Authorities have placed a significant portion of the country on high alert following a meteorological forecast predicting heavy rainfall exceeding 30mm in some areas.
The weather system is expected to originate in the Southeastern lowlands before spreading across the Rift Valley, the Lake Victoria Basin, and the Coastal strip.
The rainfall is projected to follow a specific escalation pattern over the next 72 hours:
- Saturday, Dec 27: Initial showers are expected to reach over 20mm in 24 hours within the Southeastern lowlands.
- Sunday and Monday, Dec 28–29: The system will peak, with intensity rising to over 30mm within a 24-hour period.
- Tuesday, Dec 30: A gradual reduction in precipitation levels is anticipated across most affected regions.
Areas of immediate concern
The department has identified a broad “Zone of Concern” where the risk of flooding is highest. This includes the counties of Migori, Homa Bay, Kisii, Narok, Kajiado, Makueni, Machakos, Nairobi, Kericho, Bomet, southern Kitui, Taita-Taveta, and Kwale.
“Residents in all the mentioned areas are advised to be on the lookout for potential floods,” the advisory reads.
Also Read: Kenya Meteorological Department warns of heavy rainfall in parts of the country
In addition to the rain, a wind warning has been issued for Marsabit County, where southeasterly winds are expected to reach speeds of up to 25 knots over the coming five days.
Regional forecast breakdown
| Region | Expected Conditions | Temperature Range |
| Central Highlands | Cloudy mornings with light rain; afternoon and night showers. | 5°C — 29°C |
| Rift Valley & Nyanza | Consistent rainfall during both day and night cycles. | 7°C — 32°C |
| Coastal Region | Frequent showers (brief respite on Friday/Saturday). | 23°C — 34°C |
| Northern Kenya | Predominantly sunny intervals with partly cloudy nights. | 16°C — 37°C |
Coordinated response
The advisory has been disseminated to the nation’s highest offices and emergency response units, including the Presidency, the Ministry of Environment, and the National Disaster Operations Centre (NDOC).
Humanitarian agencies and county governments have been urged to prepare for potential emergency interventions should flooding occur.
The Kenya Meteorological Department emphasized that it will continue to monitor the shifting weather patterns and will provide immediate updates should conditions deteriorate further.
Safety recommendations for residents
- Avoid driving: Do not attempt to drive through moving water; as little as six inches of water can cause loss of vehicle control.
- High ground: Residents in flood-prone valleys or near riverbanks should move to higher ground immediately if water levels rise.
- Power safety: Stay away from downed power lines and avoid using electrical appliances during heavy thunderstorms.
