Kenya Met Announces When Rains Will Ease As Flood Risks Persist Across Nairobi Metropolitan Region

Heavy rainfall that has pounded parts of the Nairobi Metropolitan region over the past week is expected to gradually reduce in intensity beginning Tuesday, March 10, according to Kenya Met.

In its latest weather advisory, Kenya Met indicated that while the most intense phase of the rains is beginning to ease, heavy downpours are still expected to continue in several areas until Monday evening, particularly across large sections of Nairobi.

Kenya Met warned that moderate to heavy showers accompanied by isolated thunderstorms could persist in several counties within the metropolitan region over the next 24 hours, urging residents to remain cautious despite the forecasted gradual reduction in rainfall intensity.

According to the weather department, the current rainfall has slightly subsided compared to the peak period experienced between March 4 and March 7. During that time, the region witnessed some of the most intense downpours in recent weeks, resulting in widespread destruction of property, severe flooding in several neighborhoods, and tragic loss of lives.

Despite the easing rainfall, forecasters caution that the risk of flooding remains significantly high. This is largely because soils across much of the region have become saturated following continuous rainfall that has persisted since February.

Experts explain that when the ground is already waterlogged, even moderate rainfall can quickly lead to flash floods, drainage system overflows, and extensive waterlogging, particularly in low-lying and poorly drained areas.

Authorities say these conditions increase the likelihood of floodwaters spreading rapidly through residential areas, roads, and business districts.

Within Nairobi City County, widespread showers are expected to continue through Sunday night and into Monday. The weather department forecasts heavier rainfall in several constituencies, including Embakasi South, Kibra, Makadara, Kamukunji, Roysambu, Westlands, Dagoretti, and Kasarani.

These areas are likely to experience the most intense showers during the afternoon and evening hours. Neighboring Kiambu County is also expected to receive continued rainfall across multiple areas such as Gatundu, Thika, Juja, Ruiru, Limuru, Kikuyu, Kabete, and Githunguri.

Further south, parts of Kajiado County are also forecast to experience rainfall, particularly across northern, western, and central sections of the county. Meanwhile, in Machakos County, meteorologists predict showers in areas including Kathiani, Machakos Town, Yatta, and other northern parts of the county.

Although the intensity of rainfall is projected to decline in the coming days, meteorologists continue to stress that prolonged wet conditions mean the threat of flooding has not yet passed.

The weather department has therefore urged residents living in flood-prone areas to remain vigilant, avoid crossing flooded roads or rivers, and keep track of official weather updates and advisories.

Emergency response agencies, including the Kenya Red Cross, alongside county disaster response teams, are also closely monitoring the situation. These agencies have intensified preparedness measures as the region waits for what is expected to be a gradual reduction in rainfall over the coming days.

Death Toll Rises as Flood Damage Mounts

The ongoing heavy rains have already left a devastating impact across several parts of the country. Torrential downpours have destroyed homes, businesses, roads, and bridges, while also causing tragic loss of life.

Recent reports indicate that in Nairobi alone, more than 43 people lost their lives following severe flooding triggered by heavy rainfall on Friday night.

Data from the Kenya Red Cross shows that families across at least 16 counties have suffered extensive losses as floodwaters swept through homes, roads, and commercial premises, leaving destruction worth millions of shillings.

Thousands of households have also been directly affected by the floods. Humanitarian agencies report that at least 4,845 people have been displaced from their homes, forcing many families to seek temporary shelter on higher ground or in emergency accommodation centers.

The agricultural sector has also taken a major hit. Floodwaters have destroyed more than 20,800 acres of arable land, raising concerns about potential disruptions to food production if the rains persist.

Agricultural experts warn that if the flooding continues, it could significantly affect planting cycles, crop yields, and food supply in the coming months, potentially threatening the country’s food security.

Authorities are continuing to assess the full extent of the damage as rescue operations and humanitarian assistance efforts continue in the affected regions.

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