The Kenya Meteorological Department (KMD) has issued a warning for heavy rainfall, forecasting over 20 millimeters of rain within 24 hours starting tomorrow, March 9, 2025. The rainfall is expected to affect several regions, including Nairobi and parts of the Lake Victoria Basin, Rift Valley, Highlands West and East of the Rift Valley, and the Southeastern Lowlands.
In its advisory, KMD has also cautioned that the rainfall could intensify to over 30 millimeters in a 24-hour period, with the heaviest rains expected to reach parts of Northwestern Kenya starting on Monday, March 10, 2025.
Dr. David Gikungu, Director of the Kenya Meteorological Department, noted that the rainfall intensity is expected to decrease from March 11, 2025, Tuesday, onwards.
The regions most at risk of severe weather conditions include Narok, Kericho, Bomet, Homabay, Siaya, Migori, Busia, Kisumu, Kisii, Nyamira, Nandi, Kakamega, Vihiga, Bungoma, Baringo, Nakuru, Trans-Nzoia, Uasin Gishu, Elgeyo Marakwet, West Pokot, Turkana, Marsabit, Nyandarua, Laikipia, Nyeri, Kirinyaga, Murang’a, Kiambu, Nairobi, Machakos, and Kajiado.
Dr. Gikungu urged residents in these areas to be cautious and prepared for possible flooding, flash floods, and reduced visibility. He further advised against seeking shelter under trees or near metal windows to reduce the risk of lightning strikes, which are common during heavy rainstorms.
Last week, KMD had predicted an early onset of the long rains season in some parts of the country, citing the Madden-Julian Oscillation, a weather pattern known to bring convective rainfall. The weather phenomenon is currently in its second phase of a 60-day cycle, which is expected to significantly influence rainfall patterns in the coming weeks.
About The Author
