Kenya Meteorological Department Issues Heavy Rainfall Alert for Multiple Counties Ahead of New Year

By Feddy Madebe

Residents across several regions of Kenya, including the capital city, have been advised to prepare for heavy rainfall and possible flooding as the country approaches the new year.

The Kenya Meteorological Department issued a weather alert on Friday, December 26, warning that multiple counties are expected to experience intensified precipitation between December 28 and December 30.

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Affected Regions and Rainfall Projections

The meteorological agency has identified several counties likely to bear the brunt of the anticipated downpours, including Migori, Homa Bay, Kisii, Narok, Kajiado, Makueni, Machakos, Nairobi, Kericho, Bomet, southern sections of Kitui, Taita-Taveta, and Kwale.

According to the department’s assessment, the probability of heavy rainfall occurring during this period ranges between 33 and 66 percent, placing it within the moderate to heavy classification on the meteorological scale.

The weather service projects that rainfall intensity will begin to diminish from December 30 onwards, offering some relief to affected areas as the new year begins.

“Heavy rainfall of more than 20mm in 24 hours is expected in parts of the southeastern lowlands on 27th December 2025,” the alert stated.

The forecast indicates a progressive intensification of weather conditions. “The rainfall is likely to intensify to more than 30mm/24hrs and spread to parts of the Highlands West and East of the Rift Valley, Lake Victoria Basin, as well as the Southern parts of the Coastal region of Kenya on 28th and 29th December 2025,” the department added.

Regional Weather Variations

The latest meteorological forecast, covering the period from Friday, December 26, through Monday, December 29, reveals contrasting weather patterns across different parts of the country.

Coastal counties including Mombasa, Kilifi, Lamu, and Kwale, along with coastal sections of Tana River County, are anticipated to experience a combination of rainfall and elevated temperatures throughout most of the week. However, Friday and Saturday mornings and afternoons are expected to see reduced precipitation in these areas.

Temperature readings in coastal regions are projected to reach maximum levels of 34°C, with minimum temperatures settling around 23°C, creating particularly warm conditions for residents.

Meanwhile, counties in the northern and northeastern regions, including Marsabit, Mandera, Wajir, Garissa, and Isiolo, are expected to experience predominantly sunny conditions with extended daylight intervals throughout the forecast period. Similar weather patterns are anticipated for Turkana and Samburu counties.

Wind Advisory

The meteorological department has also issued a wind advisory for Marsabit County, where strong southeasterly winds exceeding 25 knots (equivalent to 12.5 meters per second) are expected to persist over the next five days.

“Occasional rainfall is expected over the southern half of the country. Rainfall intensity is likely to increase as the forecast period progresses. Strong southeasterly winds, exceeding 25 knots (12.5 m/s), are anticipated over Marsabit counties,” the department’s statement indicated.

Preparation and Safety Measures

The weather alert comes as a cautionary measure for residents in vulnerable areas to take necessary precautions against potential flooding and weather-related disruptions. Authorities typically advise residents in flood-prone zones to remain vigilant, avoid crossing flooded roads, and secure their properties in anticipation of heavy downpours.

The meteorological service continues to monitor atmospheric conditions and has pledged to provide updated forecasts as weather patterns develop. Residents are encouraged to stay informed through official weather bulletins and heed any additional warnings issued by relevant authorities.

This weather system marks a significant meteorological event as Kenya transitions into the new year, with the southern regions of the country expected to experience the most substantial rainfall activity during the final days of December.

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