NAIROBI, Kenya — The Kenya Meteorological Department has issued a heavy rainfall advisory for Nairobi, warning that ongoing rains are expected to intensify across large parts of the county over the weekend.
In its latest forecast, the department indicated that heavy downpours would begin on Friday, March 20 from 3:00pm and persist until Monday, March 23 at 9:00am, with rainfall expected to peak between Friday and Sunday.
“Ongoing rainfall across several parts of Nairobi County is forecast to intensify, with accumulations exceeding 20 mm in 24 hours from March 20 to March 23 2026. The heaviest rainfall is most likely between 20 March and 22 March 2026, gradually decreasing in intensity on 23 March 2026,” the statement read.
While rainfall intensity is projected to decline on Monday, intermittent showers are expected to continue affecting parts of the city.
The advisory identifies several areas likely to experience the heaviest impact, including Westlands, Dagoretti South, Dagoretti North, Kibra, Lang’ata, Kamukunji, Mathare, Roysambu, Ruaraka and sections of Makadara.
Particular concern has been raised over informal settlements and low-lying areas along major waterways such as the Nairobi River, Ngong River and Mathare River. Authorities also flagged potential disruption within the Central Business District and along parts of the Nairobi Expressway.
Residents have been urged to remain vigilant and take precautionary measures to minimise risk during the period.
“Residents of the affected areas in Nairobi County are strongly advised to stay alert for potential floods, flash floods, and poor visibility on roads and pathways. Flood waters can appear suddenly even in locations that have not experienced heavy local rainfall, especially in downstream and low-lying zones,” the statement added.
The department further warned against dangerous behaviour during storms, including attempting to walk or drive through moving water. It also cautioned residents against sheltering under trees or near metallic structures due to the risk of lightning strikes.
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In addition, households have been advised to avoid contact with floodwaters that may be electrified and to unplug non-essential electrical appliances during storms.
The advisory comes amid the onset of Kenya’s long rains season, which typically peaks between March and May. In recent years, urban flooding in Nairobi has intensified due to rapid urbanisation, poor drainage infrastructure, and encroachment on riparian land.
Previous rainfall events have led to widespread flooding in informal settlements, displacement of residents, and major traffic disruptions, particularly in low-lying neighbourhoods and along key transport corridors.
County authorities and emergency services are expected to remain on standby as the situation develops, with motorists and pedestrians urged to monitor weather updates and plan movements accordingly.
