Met department warns of heavy rainfall and humid conditions

Nairobi residents should prepare for substantial rainfall, as the Kenya Meteorological Department has predicted wet weather across the Nairobi Highlands and Rift Valley regions, with temperatures expected to vary widely.

From August 10 to August 14, heavy rainfall is anticipated in the capital, with thunderstorms likely in several counties. Temperatures in these areas are forecasted to range from a chilly 7°C to a milder 25°C, creating a mix of cold and damp conditions throughout the city.

David Gikungu, Director of the Kenya Meteorological Department, highlighted the diverse weather patterns across the country, noting, “Rainfall is expected to persist in various parts of the Highlands, both East and West of the Rift Valley, the Rift Valley itself, the Coast, and North-western Kenya.”

Residents in Nairobi, Laikipia, Nyeri, Kirinyaga, Murang'a, Kiambu, Meru, Embu, Tharaka, and Nyandarua should also brace for very cold nights, with temperatures dropping below 6°C.

The Highlands, both east and west of the Rift Valley, North-western Kenya, and the Rift Valley are anticipated to experience significant rainfall. Residents in Nyandarua, Laikipia, Nyeri, Kirinyaga, Murang'a, Kiambu, Meru, Embu, Tharaka, and Nairobi should be prepared for the wet weather.

In addition, counties including Siaya, Kisumu, Homabay, Migori, Kisii, Nyamira, Trans Nzoia, Baringo, Uasin Gishu, Elgeyo-Marakwet, Nandi, and Nakuru are also expected to face heavy rains and thunderstorms.

Other areas such as Narok, Kericho, Bomet, Kakamega, Vihiga, Bungoma, Busia, and West Pokot will not be exempt from the weather alert, with a steady downpour predicted over the next five days. While the rains offer relief to farmers, there is a heightened risk of landslides in the hilly regions.

The coastal region, typically warmer and drier, will also see moderate rainfall on Saturday, Sunday, and Wednesday. Intermittent cool and cloudy conditions are expected across parts of the Highlands, South-eastern lowlands, and the Rift Valley.

This unusual weather pattern could cause discomfort, especially for those unprepared for the sudden temperature drop.

In the southeastern lowlands, covering Kitui, Makueni, Machakos, Kajiado, and Taita Taveta, sunny weather will prevail, though clouds may appear briefly over the weekend. Similarly, Marsabit, Mandera, Wajir, Garissa, and Isiolo will experience warm and sunny days, occasionally interrupted by morning clouds.

Conversely, the Coast, North-eastern, and North-western Kenya will experience high daytime temperatures exceeding 30°C, contrasting the cold nights elsewhere.

The Meteorological Department advises residents to take necessary precautions due to potential flash floods and other weather-related hazards.