Kenya Met Issues Heavy Rainfall Alert Affecting 33 Counties

The Kenya Meteorological Department has issued an advisory warning of heavy rainfall expected to hit at least 33 counties beginning Sunday, August 17, through Tuesday, August 19, 2025. 

In a notice released on Friday, August 15, rainfall across parts of the Lake Victoria Basin, the Rift Valley, and the Highlands West of the Rift Valley is projected to intensify, reaching more than 20mm in 24 hours before spreading to the Highlands East of the Rift Valley.

The advisory also noted that strong southerly winds exceeding 25 knots (12.9 m/s) are expected to persist throughout the period.

The affected counties include Kisumu, Homabay, Siaya, Migori, Busia, Kisii, Nyamira, Nandi, Kericho, Bomet, Kakamega, Vihiga, Bungoma, Narok, Baringo, Nakuru, Trans-Nzoia, Uasin-Gishu, Elgeyo-Marakwet, West Pokot, and Turkana.

Others are Samburu, Marsabit, Nyandarua, Laikipia, Nyeri, Kirinyaga, Nairobi, and parts of Murang'a, Kiambu, Meru, Embu, and Tharaka-Nithi.

The department has cautioned residents in the listed regions to be vigilant against possible flash floods, particularly in low-lying areas.

Motorists have been urged to avoid driving through flooded roads, as water depth may be deceptive and unsafe.

“Residents in all the mentioned areas are advised to be on the lookout for potential flash floods, especially in low-lying areas. Avoid driving through flooded roads as water may appear shallow even though it may not be entirely safe,” the notice read.

The Kenya Meteorological Department stressed the need for heightened caution and preparedness as the country braces for the heavy rain.

“Strong winds may blow off roofs, uproot trees, and cause structural damage,” Kenya Met warned.

The advisory, classified as urgent, has been circulated to key institutions, including the Office of the President, the Ministry of Environment, the Kenya Red Cross, the National Disaster Operations Centre, the Council of Governors, and County Meteorological Directors, for immediate preparedness and response.

A similar forecast issued on August 13 showed that counties in the Northwestern region, such as Mandera, Garissa, and Wajir, will experience largely dry and sunny conditions from August 12 to August 18, with the possibility of light showers emerging on Saturday night.

In the South-Eastern Lowlands, residents were told to anticipate cloudy mornings giving way to sunny afternoons in that same period. 

Along the Coast, including Mombasa, Kilifi, and Lamu, warm weather will persist with sunny breaks during the day and occasional light showers, particularly on Friday, August 15, and Saturday, August 16.