Nairobi Weather Forecast: Rainfall Expected in Embakasi and Dagoretti Areas on Friday and Saturday

As Nairobi gears up for the weekend, residents of specific areas have been advised to prepare for medium to heavy rainfall between Friday morning and Saturday morning. According to a recent update from the Kenya Meteorological Department, areas such as Embakasi and Dagoretti, among others, will experience rainfall of varying intensity. This forecast comes as part of the wider weather outlook for the week of September 24 to September 30, 2024, which highlights both rain and high temperatures across different parts of the country.

Kenya Meteorological Department Forecast for Friday and Saturday

In its weather prediction for the upcoming weekend, the Kenya Meteorological Department (KMD) has detailed specific areas in Nairobi that will experience rainfall starting from Friday morning, September 27, at 9:00 AM, to Saturday morning, September 28, at 9:00 AM. The affected areas include parts of Embakasi and Dagoretti, as well as Westlands.

While rainfall amounts are expected to vary across the city, KMD estimates that these areas could experience precipitation levels of up to 10mm. The heaviest rainfall is anticipated in:

• Embakasi West
• Embakasi Central
• Embakasi North
• Dagoretti North
• Dagoretti South
• Westlands

These areas are likely to experience steady showers, which may escalate into medium or heavy rainfall during certain periods.

Rainfall and Temperature Overview

The forecast contrasts sharply with the general weather conditions expected in most parts of the country, which will remain largely sunny and dry. KMD’s wider prediction for the week indicated that areas in Western Kenya, the Rift Valley, Lake Victoria Basin, the Coast, and the Central Highlands would experience occasional rainfall, while much of the country, including Nairobi, would see dry and hot conditions.

Temperatures in Kenya’s South Rift Valley, Coast, South-Eastern Lowlands, and North-Eastern and North-Western regions are expected to reach highs of over 30°C during the day. Conversely, some areas in the Central Highlands, Central Rift Valley, and South-Eastern Lowlands may experience significantly colder nighttime temperatures, dropping to below 10°C.

Detailed Forecast for Specific Nairobi Regions

Here is a closer look at what residents in the mentioned areas of Nairobi can expect over the next two days:

1. Embakasi West, Embakasi Central, and Embakasi North
   • These areas are set to experience moderate to heavy rainfall beginning on Friday morning. Showers will likely persist into Saturday, with precipitation potentially reaching 10mm in some areas. Residents should be prepared for possible disruptions due to wet conditions, including slippery roads and localized flooding, especially in low-lying areas.
2. Dagoretti North and Dagoretti South
   • Similar to Embakasi, Dagoretti is also expected to receive moderate to heavy rainfall. The rain may vary in intensity throughout Friday, tapering off by Saturday morning. Like other regions, the precipitation level is forecasted to be around 10mm. The Dagoretti area, known for its diverse terrain, may also experience flash flooding in parts due to the accumulation of rainfall.
3. Westlands
   • Westlands, a major business and residential district in Nairobi, is expected to receive rain over the same period. Although the rainfall may not be as intense as in Embakasi or Dagoretti, residents and commuters should be aware of wet conditions, especially during peak traffic hours.
4. Langata, Starehe, Kamukunji, Embakasi East, and Other Areas
   • While some parts of the city are expected to receive significant rainfall, other areas such as Langata, Starehe, Kamukunji, and Embakasi East may see little to no precipitation. These regions are predicted to remain mostly dry, with only brief or light showers possible during the forecast period.

Weather Prediction for the Rest of the Week (September 24–30)

In addition to the weekend forecast for Nairobi, KMD’s weekly outlook indicated a broader pattern of weather across the country. Here are the key highlights:

1. Sunny and Dry Conditions
   • Most parts of Kenya will experience sunny and dry conditions during the week, with only occasional bouts of rainfall in select areas. This pattern is consistent with the typical weather experienced in late September, which marks a transitional period between seasons.
2. Western Kenya and the Rift Valley
   • The forecast for the Rift Valley, Western Kenya, and the Lake Victoria Basin includes occasional rainfall, with some areas potentially seeing heavy showers. This region, which tends to be wetter than others due to its proximity to Lake Victoria and the surrounding highlands, will likely experience the most rainfall during the week.
3. Coastal Areas
   • The coastal region is also predicted to have some rainfall, although most of the rain will be localized. Temperatures in this region will remain high, exceeding 30°C during the day, creating hot and humid conditions.
4. Central Highlands
   • Occasional rainfall is expected in the Central Highlands, but temperatures during the night will drop significantly, with some areas recording lows below 10°C. The Central Highlands, which includes parts of Nairobi and surrounding counties, is known for its cool nights, especially during the transition from dry to wet seasons.
5. High Daytime Temperatures
   • Areas in the South Rift Valley, Coast, South-Eastern Lowlands, North-Eastern, and North-Western Kenya will experience high temperatures throughout the week, with daytime highs reaching over 30°C. Residents in these areas should prepare for the heat by staying hydrated and avoiding prolonged exposure to the sun.

Potential Impact on Nairobi Residents

The anticipated rainfall over the weekend, though not exceptionally heavy, may still cause disruptions for residents in Nairobi. The city, which often experiences traffic congestion, could see increased delays due to wet roads and potential flooding in low-lying areas. Additionally, construction sites and outdoor markets in affected areas might face temporary slowdowns as a result of the rain.

Residents in the Embakasi, Dagoretti, and Westlands areas are advised to take necessary precautions, such as:

• Ensuring proper drainage around their homes and businesses to prevent waterlogging.
• Driving cautiously, especially on slippery roads, to avoid accidents.
• Wearing appropriate clothing to protect against the rain.
• Planning for potential traffic delays, particularly during rush hours.

For those living in parts of Nairobi that will remain mostly dry, there may still be brief showers, but nothing significant is expected. However, the wider Nairobi region should stay alert as weather patterns can change rapidly.

Tips for Coping with the Rainy Weather

1. Check Weather Updates Regularly
   • Stay informed by checking weather updates from reliable sources like the Kenya Meteorological Department. Being aware of potential changes in the forecast can help you plan your day accordingly.
2. Prepare for Wet Conditions
   • If you live or work in areas expecting heavy rainfall, ensure you have umbrellas, raincoats, and waterproof shoes ready. It’s also a good idea to carry an extra set of clothes in case of unexpected downpours.
3. Drive Safely
   • Wet roads can be hazardous, so it’s important to drive cautiously. Reduce your speed, maintain a safe distance from other vehicles, and avoid areas known for flooding. If visibility is poor, consider pulling over until conditions improve.
4. Secure Your Property
   • Heavy rainfall can lead to water damage, especially in areas with poor drainage. Ensure gutters are clean and secure any outdoor furniture or equipment that could be affected by strong winds or water.

Looking Ahead: The Role of Climate in Nairobi’s Weather Patterns

Nairobi, like many other parts of Kenya, is subject to changing weather patterns due to climate variations. The city typically experiences two rainy seasons: the long rains between March and May, and the short rains from October to December. However, unseasonal rainfall, like that predicted for the upcoming weekend, is not uncommon.

Experts have pointed out that climate change may lead to more unpredictable weather, with some areas experiencing more intense and frequent rain while others become drier. This has already been observed in parts of Kenya, where prolonged droughts have affected agriculture and water supply, while other regions have seen an increase in flash flooding during the rainy season.

As Nairobi’s population continues to grow and urbanization expands, the city’s infrastructure will need to adapt to these changing weather patterns. Better drainage systems, improved road maintenance, and more robust building regulations are all crucial in ensuring that the city can cope with the impact of heavy rainfall.

Conclusion

As Nairobi prepares for a rainy weekend, residents in affected areas should remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to minimize disruptions. With rain forecasted in parts of Embakasi, Dagoretti, and Westlands, the city’s inhabitants will need to navigate wet conditions over the next two days. For those in areas where little to no rainfall is expected, it’s still a good idea to stay prepared, as weather patterns can change quickly.

Ultimately, the forecast serves as a reminder of the importance of staying informed about local weather conditions, especially during periods of seasonal transition. Whether it’s managing traffic delays, safeguarding property, or simply dressing for the rain, being proactive can help Nairobi’s residents weather the storm.