Kenya Met Department warns of intense downpours from Sunday

The Kenya Meteorological Department has issued a warning of heavy rainfall expected to begin on Sunday, August 17, across various parts of the country. The advisory highlights the risk of flash floods, lightning strikes, strong winds, and potential damage to property.

In a statement released on August 15, 2025, the department noted that rainfall in regions including the Lake Victoria Basin, Rift Valley, and the Highlands West of the Rift Valley will intensify, with amounts exceeding 20mm within 24 hours. The rains are expected to gradually extend eastwards, affecting the Central and Eastern Highlands.

The forecast indicates that the heavy rainfall will persist through Tuesday, August 19, before starting to weaken from Wednesday, August 20.

Counties likely to be most affected include Kisumu, Homa Bay, Siaya, Migori, Busia, Kisii, Nyamira, Nandi, Kericho, Bomet, Kakamega, Vihiga, and Bungoma.

Other counties under watch are Narok, Baringo, Nakuru, Trans Nzoia, Uasin Gishu, Elgeyo Marakwet, West Pokot, Turkana, Samburu, Marsabit, Nyandarua, Laikipia, Nyeri, Kirinyaga, Nairobi, Murang’a, Kiambu, Meru, Embu, and Tharaka-Nithi.

The Meteorological Department urged residents in the listed areas to exercise caution due to the risk of flash floods, particularly in low-lying and riverine zones, as well as reduced visibility for road users and sudden water surges in seasonal rivers.

“Residents in all the mentioned areas are advised to be on the lookout for potential flash floods and poor visibility. People living downstream and along seasonal rivers should be careful since water may appear suddenly even though it may not be raining within the area,” noted the weatherman.

“Residents are advised to avoid driving through, or walking in moving water or open fields and not to shelter under trees and near grilled windows to minimize exposure to lightning strikes. Strong winds may blow off roofs, uproot trees and cause structural damages.”