NAIROBI, Kenya — The Kenya Meteorological Department has issued a weather alert warning of moderate to heavy rainfall in Nairobi and several surrounding counties over the next 24 hours.
In a rainfall advisory released on Thursday afternoon, the department said the downpours are expected to affect areas within the highlands east of the Rift Valley, including Nairobi County, beginning from 9 pm.
“Moderate to heavy rainfall expected in parts of Nairobi and surrounding counties over the next 24 hours (09:00 today – 09:00 tomorrow),” stated Met.
Counties expected to experience rain
The weather agency said showers and thunderstorms are likely to occur in several counties in the central highlands during the night and into Friday.
“Showers and thunderstorms expected over a few places tonight in the highlands east of the Rift Valley, which include Nyeri County, Murang’a County, Kirinyaga County, Embu County, Meru County, Kiambu County, Tharaka-Nithi County, Laikipia County and Nyandarua County.”
According to the forecast, most areas will start the day under cloudy conditions, before experiencing sunny intervals later in the morning, with a possibility of light rainfall in elevated areas.
“Showers and thunderstorms expected over a few places in the afternoon,” the forecast added.
Rain expected in western Kenya
The meteorological department also warned that parts of western Kenya, particularly counties in the Lake Victoria Basin, may experience rainfall.
Areas likely to be affected include Kisumu County, Kakamega County, Bungoma County and Siaya County, where showers and thunderstorms are expected during the night and again in the afternoon.
Strong winds in northern Kenya
In northern Kenya, the agency warned of strong southeasterly winds exceeding 25 knots (12.5m/s) in parts of Turkana County and Marsabit County, conditions that could affect both road and air travel in the region.
Coastal regions to experience light showers
Meanwhile, coastal counties are expected to receive light rainfall overnight, with further showers possible on Friday.
Also Read: Kenya issues heavy rain alert for Nairobi as flood and disease risks rise
The affected counties include Mombasa County, Kwale County, Kilifi County, Lamu County and Tana River County, with heavier rainfall likely along sections of the south coast.
Flood risk concerns
The weather advisory comes amid growing concerns over flood risks in urban centres, particularly in Nairobi where recent heavy rains have caused flash floods in low-lying neighbourhoods and informal settlements.
Authorities have urged residents in flood-prone areas to remain vigilant and avoid crossing flooded roads or rivers during periods of intense rainfall.
