The Kenya Meteorological Department has cautioned that Nairobi and several other parts of the country are set to experience heavy rainfall, which may result in flooding.
In an advisory issued on Sunday night, the department’s Director, David Gikungu, stated that the rains would commence at 3 PM on Sunday, March 9, and persist until 9 PM on March 11.
According to the weatherman, certain areas, including the Lake Victoria Basin and the Rift Valley, are likely to receive rainfall exceeding 20mm within 24 hours.
“Heavy rainfall of more than 20mm in 24 hours is anticipated over parts of the Lake Victoria Basin, the Rift Valley, and the Highlands west and east of the Rift Valley, including Nairobi and southeastern lowlands, on March 9, 2025,” the statement noted.
The advisory further indicated that the rainfall could intensify beyond 30mm in 24 hours, expanding into northwestern Kenya on March 10 before gradually reducing in intensity from March 11.
Residents in areas prone to flooding have been advised to exercise caution, particularly those in low-lying regions. Travelers have also been urged to remain vigilant due to potential poor visibility and hazardous road conditions.
Counties expected to experience heavy rainfall include Narok, Kericho, Bomet, Homa Bay, Siaya, Migori, Busia, Kisumu, Kisii, Nyamira, Nandi, Kakamega, Vihiga, Bungoma, and Baringo. Others include Nakuru, Trans-Nzoia, Uasin Gishu, Elgeyo-Marakwet, West Pokot, Turkana, Marsabit, Nyandarua, Laikipia, Nyeri, Kirinyaga, Murang’a, Kiambu, Nairobi, Machakos, and Kajiado.
Residents in these regions have been urged to stay alert for potential flash floods and to avoid sheltering under trees or near grilled windows to reduce exposure to lightning strikes.
The weatherman assured that updates would be provided should there be any significant changes to the forecast.
Meanwhile, agencies such as the National Intelligence Service, Kenya Red Cross Society, Kenya Maritime Authority, Kenya Ports Authority, Kenya Airports Authority, National Disaster Operations Centre, National Disaster Management Unit, and county meteorological directors have been advised to remain on standby for any emergency response needs.
The heavy rains are expected to subside gradually starting Tuesday, March 11.
