Kenya Meteorological Department (Kenya Met) has issued a weather forecast for the upcoming weekend, warning of increased rainfall, particularly in the southern half of the country. The forecast, which covers the period from Saturday, January 25, to Wednesday, January 29, indicates that some areas will experience moderate to heavy rains.
Kenya Met’s statement highlighted that the rain would begin in the southern regions and gradually extend northward as the week progresses. This marks a shift from the dry conditions many parts of the country have been experiencing. The weather department, known for its accurate forecasts, took to social media, saying, “Been dry lately? Changes are coming!” signaling the shift in weather patterns.
The counties that will experience the rainfall include Nairobi, Nyandarua, Laikipia, Nyeri, Kirinyaga, Murang’a, Kiambu, Meru, Embu, and Tharaka. These areas are expected to receive rainfall in the afternoon and night. Scattered rainfall is also likely to occur in the Highlands (east and west of the Rift Valley), Central and South Rift Valley, and Southeastern Lowlands.
Kenya Met has warned that isolated storms could develop towards the end of the forecast period, particularly in parts of the Rift Valley, Southeastern Lowlands, and Central Highlands. Additionally, the weather department has cautioned about strong southeasterly winds, which could exceed 25 knots (12.5 m/s) in parts of Turkana, Marsabit, and Garissa counties.
While the southern half of the country braces for rainfall, the northern regions and the coastal area will continue to experience sunny and dry conditions. This weather pattern could have an impact on agriculture, transport, and other sectors sensitive to weather conditions, such as tourism and logistics.
The Kenya Met forecast coincides with a broader outlook from the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), which has predicted below-normal rainfall in many parts of the Greater Horn of Africa during the March to May 2025 season. The IGAD forecast highlights that much of Somalia, eastern and northern Kenya, southern and northeastern Ethiopia, and other areas will likely receive below-average rainfall. However, there is an enhanced likelihood of above-average rainfall in southwestern Ethiopia, western Kenya, and parts of Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, and Tanzania.
As the rainy season arrives, Kenya Met has urged residents in the affected regions to be prepared for changing conditions, advising caution on the roads and in areas susceptible to flooding and storm damage.
