The Kenya Meteorological Department has issued a rainfall notice, saying that rains presently falling in many parts of the country are projected to intensify between May 8 and 14, 2026.
Kenya Met has said that rainfall is anticipated to surpass 20mm within 24 hours in the Highlands West and East of the Rift Valley, as well as the Central Highlands, which include areas of the Southeastern Lowlands.
According to the Meteorological department, the intensity of rainfall is expected to peak between May 10 and 13, 2026, before gradually decreasing beginning May 14. However, rainfall is anticipated to persist in numerous areas even after the intensity decreases.
The advisory further noted that the heavy rains are also expected to spread to parts of the Northwestern sector during the forecast period.
Counties Expected to Experience Heavy Rainfall
Areas expected to be affected include Migori, Nyamira, Bungoma, Busia, Kakamega, Vihiga, West Pokot, Baringo, Elgeyo Marakwet, Trans Nzoia, Nandi, Uasin Gishu, Nakuru, Siaya, Kisumu, Homa Bay, Kisii, Kericho, Bomet, Kiambu, Embu, Murang’a, Kirinyaga, Nyandarua, Nyeri, Laikipia, Tharaka-Nithi, Meru, Nairobi and Narok.
Parts of Turkana, Samburu, Kajiado and Machakos counties are also expected to experience the intensified rainfall.
Kenya Met Issues Safety Precautions
The department warned residents to remain vigilant due to the possibility of floods, flash floods and poor visibility during the period.
Kenya Met cautioned that flooding may still occur in areas that may not directly experience heavy rainfall, especially downstream areas affected by water flowing from higher grounds.
Residents have been advised to avoid walking or driving through moving water and to stay away from open fields during storms.
The advisory also warned members of the public against sheltering under trees or near grilled windows due to the risk of lightning strikes.
People living in landslide-prone areas, particularly along the slopes of the Aberdare Ranges, Mt. Kenya and other hilly regions, have been urged to exercise extreme caution throughout the period of heavy rainfall.
The weather department classified the advisory severity as moderate to heavy, with a moderate probability of occurrence estimated at between 33 percent and 66 percent.
Kenya Met said it will continue monitoring the situation and provide updates promptly should there be any changes in the weather outlook.
