NAIROBI, Kenya- Kenyans have been warned to prepare for continuing downpours as the Kenya Meteorological Department (KMD) says heavy rainfall will persist across many parts of the country through the first week of March 2026.
In its latest advisory, KMD forecast that moderate to heavy rainfall, at times exceeding 20 millimetres within 24 hours, will continue from February 25 to February 28, and is now expected to last through March 3, particularly over the Lake Victoria Basin and the Highlands West of the Rift Valley.
Although rainfall intensity is likely to ease from March 1 over the Southeastern lowlands, Coastal region and Highlands East of the Rift Valley, including Nairobi, the extended forecast shows persistent rain in areas historically prone to flooding.
The expanded weather system may also spread into parts of north-eastern Kenya before it begins to ease, the department said, urging residents in affected regions to be vigilant.
The Kenya Meteorological Department has issued a rainfall advisory.Please remain alert and prioritize your safety.
Counties expected to receive significant rain include Migori, Kakamega, Kisumu, Busia, Embu, Murang’a, Kiambu, Narok, Kitui, Kwale, Mombasa and others across western, central and coastal areas.
KMD has cautioned that flooding and flash floods may occur even in areas that have not seen significant rainfall, especially downstream and in low-lying locations.
Residents are advised to avoid crossing flooded roads or walking through moving water, and to stay clear of open fields and tall trees during storms to reduce lightning risk.
In related efforts, the Kenya Red Cross Society has reactivated its SMS flood early warning system, including alerts aimed at warning communities about potential flash floods, and reminds residents to use the free emergency line (1199) to report incidents requiring emergency response.
Meteorologists say the extended wet spell comes amid the short rains season, a period typically associated with increased rainfall activity, and Kenyans are urged to take precautionary measures as the country navigates through the unsettled weather.
