Stay Alert: Weatherman Warns Nairobi, Select Counties to Prepare for Heavy Rainfall in Coming Hours

The Kenya Meteorological Department has issued a weather advisory warning residents of Nairobi and neighbouring counties to prepare for moderate to heavy rainfall expected within the next 24 hours.

According to the department, the rainfall advisory takes effect from 9pm on Thursday, March 12, to 9pm on Friday, March 13. 

The agency cautioned that the anticipated downpours could disrupt transport and lead to flooding in low-lying and poorly drained areas across the capital.

The warning comes as the country begins experiencing the onset of the March-May long rains season, a period that typically brings increased rainfall across many parts of Kenya.

Weather officials said the approaching rains could intensify quickly, potentially overwhelming drainage systems in some parts of the city and causing temporary flooding.

In its advisory, the weatherman urged residents to remain vigilant and take precautionary measures as the rains begin to intensify.

“This is the beginning of the March-May long rains season, a period typically characterised by increased precipitation across Kenya. Residents are advised to stay alert, monitor official forecasts, and avoid flood-prone areas during periods of heavy rainfall,” the department said.

Meteorologists noted that Nairobi and counties in the highlands east of the Rift Valley are likely to experience cloudy conditions during the morning hours before showers and thunderstorms develop later in the day.

The forecast shows that Nairobi may record daytime temperatures of around 28°C, with night temperatures expected to drop to about 17°C.

Beyond the capital, rainfall activity is also expected in several other regions across the country.

Counties in western Kenya, particularly those within the Lake Victoria Basin and parts of the Rift Valley, may experience showers and thunderstorms overnight and into the afternoon.

Meanwhile, areas in the south-eastern lowlands, including Machakos County, Kitui County, Makueni County, and Kajiado County, could also receive rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms.

Coastal counties such as Mombasa County, Kilifi County, Kwale County, Lamu County, and Tana River County are expected to experience light showers at night and in the morning, with thunderstorms possible in the afternoon.

However, some northern regions, including Turkana County and Marsabit County, are expected to remain mostly dry but windy, with strong southeasterly winds forecast.

The warning comes days after devastating floods swept through parts of Nairobi following heavy rains on March 6, leaving several people dead and causing widespread damage to property and infrastructure.

Authorities have advised residents to stay updated through official weather updates and avoid crossing flooded roads or rivers during periods of heavy rainfall.