Heavy Rains, Thunderstorms To Hit The Following Regions As Kenya Met Department Issues Nationwide Alert

The Kenya Meteorological Department (Kenya Met) has issued a comprehensive weather advisory warning of heavy rainfall and thunderstorms expected to pound several parts of the country this weekend, with Nairobi County and large sections of Western Kenya singled out among the most affected areas.

According to Kenya Met, Nairobi has been listed among 12 regions projected to receive above-normal rainfall between February 27 and March 3, 2026. Meteorologists indicate that the wet conditions will intensify as the weekend progresses, ushering in periods of sustained downpours, lightning, and thunder across multiple regions.

Kenya Met projects that showers and thunderstorms will begin on the night of Friday, February 27, before spreading into the morning of Saturday, February 28, and continuing into the afternoon hours.

The affected zones include Western Kenya, the Lake Victoria Basin, the Rift Valley, the Central Highlands, and the South Eastern Lowlands. These areas are likely to experience varying rainfall intensity, with some localities recording prolonged heavy spells.

Nairobi, which falls within the Highlands East of the Rift Valley climatic zone, is expected to bear the brunt of the weather system. Early cloud formations and intermittent showers have already been observed across the capital, signaling the build-up to heavier rainfall.

“Nairobi is expected to experience moderate to heavy rainfall, with intensity likely to peak on February 28,” the Kenya Meteorological Department stated in its advisory, cautioning residents to prepare for possible disruptions.

The alert extends to more than 40 counties nationwide. In Western and Rift Valley regions, counties such as Migori County, Kakamega County, Kisumu County, Nakuru County, and Kericho County are on high alert.

Within the Central Highlands and surrounding areas, Kiambu County, Murang’a County, Nyeri County, Meru County, Kirinyaga County, Nyandarua County, Laikipia County, and Embu County have also been advised to brace for significant rainfall activity.

Meanwhile, counties in the South Eastern and coastal belt, including Machakos County, Kajiado County, Mombasa County, Kilifi County, and Tana River County, are also expected to receive substantial rainfall, though some coastal stretches may remain comparatively dry.

Additional counties on the watchlist include Busia County, Vihiga County, Siaya County, Homa Bay County, Kisii County, Bomet County, Uasin Gishu County, Nandi County, Trans Nzoia County, Baringo County, Elgeyo-Marakwet County, Nyamira County, and Tharaka-Nithi County.

Parts of Isiolo County, Marsabit County, and Garissa County have also been included in the advisory, even though much of the North Eastern and North Western regions are forecast to remain generally dry. However, meteorologists note that isolated light showers may still occur in select areas within the typically arid zones on Friday night and into Saturday morning, meaning no region is entirely immune to the shifting weather patterns.

Authorities have warned that the anticipated heavy rainfall may trigger flash floods in low-lying and flood-prone areas, particularly within Nairobi and other urban centers where drainage systems are often overwhelmed.

Commuters have been advised to anticipate traffic snarl-ups, reduced visibility, and possible road closures. Rural areas could also experience impassable roads, especially in regions with ongoing infrastructure works.

Emergency and humanitarian agencies are closely monitoring the situation. The Kenya Red Cross Society has urged communities to remain vigilant and to report emergencies promptly. Road agencies, including the Kenya Urban Roads Authority and the Kenya Rural Roads Authority, have similarly issued safety advisories, warning motorists and pedestrians to avoid flooded sections, unstable bridges, and areas historically prone to landslides.

Residents across all affected counties are encouraged to keep track of official updates from the Kenya Meteorological Department, secure property that could be damaged by strong winds, and exercise caution throughout the peak rainfall period. With the long rains season now intensifying, preparedness and timely response will be critical in minimizing potential damage and safeguarding lives.

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