The Kenya Meteorological Department has issued a weather alert warning of sustained heavy rainfall across several regions in the country for the week starting Tuesday, April 8 through Monday, April 14.
In its weekly weather advisory released on April 8, the department urged residents in the Central Highlands, Western, North-Western, and North-Eastern parts of Kenya to remain vigilant, as significant rainfall is expected throughout the period.
Counties in the Central Highlands — including Nyandarua, Laikipia, Nyeri, Kirinyaga, Murang’a, Kiambu, Meru, Embu, Tharaka Nithi, and Nairobi — are expected to experience afternoon showers that will extend into the night.
Heavy downpours have also been forecast in Western Kenya and parts of the Rift Valley, affecting areas such as Siaya, Kisumu, Homa Bay, Migori, Kisii, Nyamira, Trans Nzoia, Uasin Gishu, Baringo, Elgeyo Marakwet, Nandi, Nakuru, Narok, and Kericho.
According to the weather authority, these rains may be accompanied by thunderstorms, increasing the risk of flash floods, especially in low-lying areas and regions with poor drainage systems.
Other counties expected to be affected by similar rainfall patterns include Bomet, Kakamega, Vihiga, Bungoma, Busia, West Pokot, Turkana, and Samburu.
While heavy rains are expected in most regions, moderate showers are forecast for parts of Eastern Kenya, such as Kitui, Machakos, Makueni, Kajiado, and Taita Taveta. The Coast — including Mombasa, Kilifi, Kwale, Lamu, and inland Tana River — is also expected to experience moderate rainfall.
Residents in the highland regions were further warned to prepare for significantly cold nights, with nighttime temperatures expected to dip below 10°C during the first half of the week before slightly rising to 11°C.
Conversely, the Meteorological Department projected scorching daytime temperatures in coastal and northeastern counties like Mombasa, Kilifi, Kwale, Lamu, Marsabit, Wajir, Mandera, Garissa, and Isiolo — where highs above 30°C are expected for most of the week.
The public is advised to take necessary precautions to avoid weather-related hazards such as flooding, landslides, and health risks due to temperature fluctuations.