The Kenya Meteorological Department has issued a weather alert, cautioning Kenyans to brace for continued heavy rains across several regions of the country. The department stated that the ongoing rainfall could mark the onset of the rainy season in various parts of Kenya.
According to Kenya Met, isolated heavy rainfall events are expected to persist in several regions, including Western Kenya, the Rift Valley, Central Highlands (including Nairobi), the Lake Victoria Basin, parts of the South-Eastern Lowlands, as well as sections of the Coast, North-Eastern, and North-Western Kenya.
The department noted that while the rainfall will be beneficial, it could also lead to adverse effects such as flooding and disruptions in daily activities. It urged residents, especially those in flood-prone areas, to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions.
On Sunday evening, heavy rains were experienced in many parts of the country, with showers continuing throughout the night. Similar weather patterns were observed the previous week, when Nairobi and several other regions recorded persistent downpours from Sunday evening through Tuesday.
The March 2025 monthly weather outlook, released on February 28, indicated that Kenya is expected to experience near to above-average rainfall in most regions, while some areas may see below-average rainfall. This development comes as a relief, particularly for farmers and residents who have been dealing with prolonged dry conditions.
Director of Meteorological Services, David Gikungu, advised farmers to prepare for the rainy season by liaising with local agricultural extension officers for guidance. The rains are expected to provide much-needed relief to Kenya’s parched landscapes, enhancing water availability for both agricultural and domestic use.
The anticipated rainfall is attributed to the influence of the Madden-Julian Oscillation (MJO), a global weather phenomenon that brings increased cloud cover, rain, and storms as it moves from west to east along the equator. According to Gikungu, the MJO is expected to enter phase two in mid-March, potentially triggering an earlier-than-expected onset of the rainy season in some parts of the country.
Kenya Met has assured the public that it will continue to monitor weather patterns and issue timely updates. Citizens are encouraged to stay informed through official channels and take necessary precautions to safeguard their lives and property during this period of increased rainfall.
