Cloudy weather in Nairobi. Photo Vincent Kiprop

The Kenya Meteorological Department has forecast continued rainfall across five regions this week, with warnings of cold weather and strong winds expected in several parts of the country.

In its weekly forecast released on Monday, July 7, the Met Department indicated that rainfall will persist in the Central Highlands—including Nairobi—Lake Victoria Basin, the Rift Valley, Western Kenya, and parts of North-Western Kenya.

“Rain is expected in the following areas: Central Highlands including Nairobi, Lake Victoria Basin, Rift Valley, Western Kenya, and North-Western Kenya,” read part of the statement from the department.

Alongside the rains, residents in the Highlands east and west of the Rift Valley, the South-Eastern lowlands, and the Rift Valley are expected to experience cold and cloudy conditions.

Chilly Nights and Scorching Days

Night-time temperatures are projected to drop below 10°C in the Central Highlands, parts of the Central Rift Valley, and areas surrounding Mt. Kilimanjaro.

In contrast, areas in North-Eastern and North-Western Kenya will continue to record daytime temperatures above 30°C.

File image of Kenya Meteorological Department Director Dr. David Gikungu.

Strong Winds Warning

The Met Department has also warned of strong southerly to south-easterly winds exceeding 25 knots (12.86 m/s) along the Coast and Kenya’s territorial waters. Similar wind patterns are expected in the South-Eastern lowlands, and parts of North-Eastern and North-Western Kenya.

Health Advisory

The forecast comes days after a health alert issued by the department on July 1, warning of a rise in respiratory illnesses including asthma, pneumonia, flu, and the common cold, especially in Nairobi and the Highlands East of the Rift Valley.

“To avoid contracting diseases, the general public is advised to dress warmly and follow the advice of the Ministry of Health. They are also cautioned against using charcoal jikos in poorly ventilated spaces due to the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning,” the statement read.

The Kenya Meteorological Department urged Kenyans to remain vigilant and to follow updates on weather changes to stay safe during this cold and wet season.