The Kenya Meteorological Department has warned of moderate to heavy rainfall across dozens of counties, cautioning residents to remain alert for possible flash floods, lightning strikes and poor visibility.
In its latest weather advisory, the department said rainfall exceeding 20 millimetres within 24 hours is expected in parts of the Coast, Northeastern, Highlands West and East of the Rift Valley, Central Highlands, including some parts of Nairobi, and the Southeastern Lowlands.
The rainfall is also expected to affect several counties across western Kenya, the Rift Valley and northern parts of the country, with residents urged to take precautionary measures to protect lives and property.
Counties listed as being at risk include Kwale, Mombasa, Kilifi, Tana River and Lamu in the Coast region, as well as Garissa, Wajir, Mandera, Marsabit and Isiolo in northern and northeastern Kenya.
In western Kenya, the advisory covers Migori, Nyamira, Bungoma, Busia, Kakamega, Vihiga, Siaya, Kisumu, Homa Bay and Kisii.
Other affected areas include West Pokot, Baringo, Elgeyo Marakwet, Trans Nzoia, Nandi, Uasin Gishu, Nakuru, Kericho, Bomet, Narok and Laikipia.
The forecast also includes Kiambu, Embu, Murang’a, Kirinyaga, Nyandarua, Nyeri, Tharaka-Nithi and Meru, alongside parts of Nairobi, Taita Taveta, Kitui, Machakos and Makueni counties.
The department warned that the rainfall could be accompanied by gusty winds, with strong southerly to southeasterly winds exceeding 25 knots, equivalent to approximately 46 kilometres per hour, expected over coastal, eastern and northern regions.
Residents in the affected areas have been advised to remain vigilant, particularly in flood-prone locations, and exercise caution when travelling during periods of heavy rainfall because of reduced visibility and hazardous road conditions.
The department further cautioned that flooding may occur in areas that have not experienced heavy rainfall, especially downstream, where water from upstream locations can accumulate rapidly.
Residents have also been urged to avoid taking shelter under trees or staying near grilled windows during thunderstorms to reduce their exposure to lightning strikes.
Meanwhile, the Kenya Meteorological Department has forecast persistently high temperatures in some parts of the country over the next seven days, particularly in the northern regions.
People living in areas expected to experience high temperatures have been advised to drink sufficient water, remain hydrated and avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight.
The department said further updates would be issued promptly if weather conditions change, urging the public to follow official advisories and take appropriate precautions throughout the forecast period.
