Heavy rains disrupt Nairobi traffic as Kenya Met warns of more downpours
It warned that heavy to very heavy rainfall ranging from 20 to more than 50 millimetres in 24 hours is likely in some of these areas, including Nairobi, and may be accompanied by gusty winds.
Ongoing rains across several parts of Kenya are expected to continue through the weekend, with heavy to very heavy rainfall forecast in multiple regions, the Kenya Meteorological Department has said.
In its latest update on Saturday, October 4, the department said the current rainfall pattern is expected to persist over the Highlands east and west of the Rift Valley, Nairobi, the Lake Victoria Basin, the Rift Valley and parts of northwestern Kenya.
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It warned that heavy to very heavy rainfall ranging from 20 to more than 50 millimetres in 24 hours is likely in some of these areas, including Nairobi, and may be accompanied by gusty winds.
The department cautioned that flooding may occur even downstream where rain has not fallen, and advised the public to avoid crossing moving water and stay indoors during thunderstorms.
The update builds on an earlier advisory issued on October 3, which warned that rain over the Lake Victoria Basin, the Rift Valley and the Highlands west of the Rift Valley would intensify and spread to the Highlands east of the Rift Valley, including Nairobi, through Sunday, October 5.
In Nairobi, heavy rains on Friday evening flooded parts of the Central Business District, causing major traffic disruption along Thika Road and sections of the Nairobi Expressway.
October marks the beginning of Kenya’s short rains season, which runs through December. While these rains are vital for agriculture and water resources, they also pose risks in urban and rural areas.
In cities like Nairobi, inadequate drainage systems often result in flash floods, while rural communities may face temporary access issues on unpaved roads and disruptions to harvesting activities.
Motorists are advised to drive carefully due to reduced visibility and slippery surfaces, and pedestrians should avoid walking through flooded areas and open drains.
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