Kenyans brace for week of unpredictable weather with rains, heatwaves

Kenyans should prepare for a challenging week ahead as the Kenya Meteorological Department forecasts unpredictable weather conditions.

The coming days will bring a mix of scorching heat in some regions and heavy rains in others, stretching from September 26 to October 2.

According to the department, strong winds and shifting temperatures are expected across the country.

Some areas will endure intense heat, while others will be drenched by rainfall, creating a complex weather pattern that may affect daily routines for many.

Regions in the highlands east and west of the Rift Valley are expected to experience moderate to heavy rains, particularly in counties like Nyandarua, Laikipia, and Meru.

These showers will mainly occur in the afternoons and evenings, giving locals a brief window of calm during the mornings.

Counties such as Nyeri, Kirinyaga, Murang'a, Kiambu, Embu, Tharaka-Nithi, and Nairobi are also expected to receive rainfall during these periods.

For the residents in Nairobi, Nakuru, and Kiambu, temperatures will fluctuate between a chilly 7°C in the mornings and a comfortable 30°C during the day.

This swing in temperatures could pose a challenge, especially for those commuting and managing outdoor activities.

Meanwhile, the coastal areas, including Mombasa, Tana River, and Lamu, will remain largely dry, with temperatures ranging from 22°C to 31°C.

Days will be mostly clear and sunny, while nights will see some cloud cover, offering slight relief from the daytime heat.

In the Lake Victoria region, counties like Siaya, Kisumu, Homa Bay, and Migori are bracing for heavy downpours accompanied by thunderstorms.

Although mornings may start off sunny, afternoons will likely be stormy, making the weather unpredictable.

Persistent rainfall is expected to continue into early next week, causing potential disruptions for locals.

Residents of Kisii, Nyamira, and Trans Nzoia will also need to contend with ongoing rains and thunderstorms, with temperatures ranging between 9°C and 31°C.

The sharp shifts in weather, from cold to hot, are likely to make daily activities even more difficult.

On the other hand, north-western Kenya, including Turkana and Samburu, will face intense heat over the next five days, with temperatures expected to reach highs of 36°C, peaking at 37°C on Monday.

Although some rainfall is expected from Saturday to Tuesday, the extreme heat will persist, offering little relief to residents in these regions.

Counties such as Kitui, Makueni, and Machakos will also experience hot, sunny days, with temperatures ranging from 11°C to 32°C.

While nights may bring slightly cooler conditions, the daytime heat will be a challenge for residents.

David Gikungu, the director of the Kenya Meteorological Department, emphasised the need for Kenyans to be prepared for a range of weather patterns.

"While certain regions will see persistent rains, others will need to manage under blazing heat," he noted, stressing that the next few days will present climate extremes across the country.

He said while the highlands and Lake Victoria Basin will receive rainfall, the coastal region will remain hot and humid, with little chance of rain.

"Residents in these areas should be prepared for minimal changes in the weather, with high temperatures and dry conditions dominating the coast," he added.