Intense rainfall expected across Kenya from Friday to Sunday
The public, transport operators, farmers, and local authorities are encouraged to follow official bulletins and advisories for safety and preparedness.
Kenya is set to experience intensified rainfall from Friday, October 3, to Sunday, October 5, 2025, with both the amount and coverage expected to increase across various parts of the country.
According to a public alert from the Kenya Meteorological Department, the central highlands, including Nairobi, as well as the Lake Victoria basin, Rift Valley, western, and north-western regions, are likely to be most affected.
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The alert warns of "isolated heavy rainfall of 20mm to 50mm in 24 hours, and in some places very heavy rainfall exceeding 50mm in 24 hours," which could lead to "localised flooding, slippery roads, and possible disruptions."
The department has urged residents and travellers to stay vigilant, exercise caution, and make informed decisions regarding movement and outdoor activities during this period, particularly in low-lying and flood-prone areas.
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.
County governments and disaster response teams in vulnerable areas are encouraged to remain on high alert.
In previous events, heavy rainfall has caused transport disruptions, power outages, and temporary displacement of residents.
The Kenya Red Cross has highlighted that early preparedness can significantly reduce risks to life and property during extreme weather events.
Earlier forecasts from the Kenya Meteorological Department had indicated potential rainfall across parts of the Highlands, Rift Valley, Lake Victoria Basin, and North-Western Kenya. The department reiterated that "isolated heavy rainfall events may occur in some of these areas. Stay alert and take the necessary precautions."
The Coastal region may also see occasional rainfall, which could affect ferry services, urban drainage, and low-lying settlements in areas such as Mombasa, Kilifi, and Lamu. Conversely, much of
North-Eastern Kenya and parts of the South-East, including Garissa, Wajir, Mandera, and portions of Kitui and Tana River counties, are expected to remain mostly dry. Residents in these areas are advised to manage water resources carefully.
The upcoming rains signal the official start of the short rains season in many parts of the country. While crucial for agriculture and water replenishment, they often bring hazards such as flash floods and landslides, particularly in highland or deforested areas.
The Kenya Meteorological Department continues to monitor weather patterns and will issue updates as needed.
The public, transport operators, farmers, and local authorities are encouraged to follow official bulletins and advisories for safety and preparedness.
Up-to-date weather information is available through the department’s website, official social media channels, and accredited media outlets.
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