The long rains season has officially arrived in Kenya, and the Kenya Meteorological Department (KMD) is urging citizens to stay vigilant as the country braces for potentially heavy downpours.
Dr. David Gikungu, Director of KMD, confirmed that the rainfall observed between March 10 and March 16, 2025, marked the beginning of the MAM (March-April-May) rainfall season. This season is expected to bring significant rain to various regions, including the Highlands East and West of the Rift Valley, the Lake Victoria Basin, the Rift Valley, South-eastern lowlands, and parts of North-eastern Kenya.
Dr. Gikungu highlighted that there has been a noticeable increase in rainfall in comparison to the previous week, especially in the Southeastern lowlands and parts of the Northeastern regions. “This increased rainfall marks the true onset of the long rains season for areas such as the Highlands West of the Rift Valley, the Lake Victoria Basin, Nairobi, and isolated areas over the Highlands East of the Rift Valley, Southeastern lowlands, and parts of Isiolo County,” he stated.
However, several regions are yet to experience the full impact of the rains. The remaining parts of the Highlands East of the Rift Valley and the Southeastern lowlands are expected to begin receiving rainfall this week. In contrast, areas in the northwestern parts of Kenya and coastal regions will likely see occasional rainfall throughout the remainder of March.
The onset of rains for the Northeastern region is predicted to occur between March 18-24, 2025, with another round expected between March 25-31. However, Dr. Gikungu cautioned that after the rains, these regions may experience dry spells.
Kenya’s coastal region is expected to see its peak rainfall in May, with the full intensity of the long rains season likely to hit in April.
KMD has urged the public to stay informed about the weather and take necessary precautions, especially in areas that are prone to flooding or other weather-related hazards.
