The Kenya Meteorological Service Authority (KMSA) has issued a weather advisory warning of heavy rainfall, strong winds and high ocean waves across large parts of the country from Saturday evening.
According to the advisory issued on Friday, October 23, moderate to heavy rainfall exceeding 20 millimetres within 24 hours is expected from 6pm on Saturday, October 24, with the heaviest downpours anticipated between October 26 and 28.
Rainfall intensity is expected to decrease by October 30.
The weather authority warned that the rainfall could be accompanied by gusty winds, with strong southerly to southeasterly winds exceeding 25 knots expected in coastal, eastern and northern regions.
Along the Indian Ocean coast, waves exceeding two metres are forecast for Sunday, October 25, posing risks to maritime transport, fishing communities and other coastal activities.
Residents and those undertaking maritime activities have been urged to exercise caution and follow official weather updates.
Counties facing heavy rainfall
The advisory covers extensive areas of the country, including coastal counties such as Kwale, Mombasa, Kilifi, Tana River and Lamu.
Eastern and northeastern areas expected to experience rainfall include Garissa, Wajir, Mandera, Marsabit and Isiolo, alongside parts of Kitui, Machakos and Makueni.
In the Rift Valley, the warning covers West Pokot, Baringo, Elgeyo Marakwet, Trans Nzoia, Nandi, Uasin Gishu, Nakuru, Kericho, Bomet, Narok, Kajiado and Laikipia.
Western Kenya and the Lake Victoria Basin are also expected to receive significant rainfall, with Migori, Nyamira, Bungoma, Busia, Kakamega, Vihiga, Siaya, Kisumu, Homa Bay and Kisii among the affected counties.
In the central highlands and surrounding areas, the advisory includes Kiambu, Embu, Murang’a, Kirinyaga, Nyandarua, Nyeri, Tharaka-Nithi and Meru, as well as parts of Nairobi County.
Parts of Taita-Taveta County are also covered by the warning.
Flash floods and lightning risks
The weather authority cautioned that heavy rainfall could trigger flash floods, including in communities located downstream from areas experiencing intense downpours.
Residents have been urged to remain vigilant, particularly in flood-prone locations.
Motorists have also been warned that heavy rainfall could reduce visibility and make driving conditions hazardous.
To minimise the risk of lightning strikes, members of the public have been advised against seeking shelter under isolated trees or standing near metal-grilled windows during thunderstorms.
Despite the heavy rainfall forecast across many regions, high temperatures are expected to persist in parts of northern Kenya.
Residents in areas experiencing intense heat have been advised to remain hydrated and avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight.
The weather authority has assessed the likelihood of the forecast conditions at between 33 and 66 per cent and indicated that further updates will be issued if weather conditions change.
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