NAIROBI, Kenya — If you’re wondering whether to carry an umbrella, sunscreen, or a sweater this week, the answer might be: all of the above.
The Kenya Meteorological Department has issued a fresh advisory forecasting a dramatic mix of isolated heavy rains, blazing daytime temperatures, and chilly nights across the country between May 6 and May 12, 2025.
Heavy Rains to Hit Isolated Areas
In its latest weekly forecast, the department highlighted several regions—including the Central Highlands, Lake Victoria Basin, Coast, parts of the Rift Valley, and Western and North-Western Kenya—as likely recipients of intermittent but intense downpours.
“These rains will be scattered but could be intense in isolated areas,” the advisory states. Translation? Don’t be fooled by sunny mornings.
Afternoon skies may flip the script with sudden torrents, especially in flood-prone counties.
Last week’s relatively dry spell gave a brief reprieve to most regions, but weather experts warn that the March-April-May long rains season is still active—and full of surprises.
Rural farmers and city dwellers alike are urged to remain weather-ready and monitor forecasts regularly.
Sizzling Heat Returns to Coastal and Northern Kenya
If rain isn’t in your forecast, prepare for the heat. Daytime temperatures are expected to soar past 30°C in the Coastal counties (think Mombasa, Kilifi, Kwale, and Lamu), as well as North-Eastern and North-Western Kenya—including hotspots like Turkana and Garissa.
These extreme temperatures may impact health, agriculture, and infrastructure, particularly in regions where drought resilience is already being tested.
Authorities are calling on residents to stay hydrated, reduce outdoor exposure during peak heat, and remain cautious, especially for the elderly and young children.
In contrast, sunny spells will dominate the South-Eastern lowlands, with occasional light showers possibly sneaking in during the morning or night. Counties like Machakos, Kitui, Makueni, and Kajiado are expected to straddle this warm-but-bearable middle ground.
Nighttime Temperatures to Dip Below 10°C in Highland Areas
While some are sweating by day, others will be bundling up by night. Residents of the Central Highlands, Central Rift Valley, and areas near Mt. Kilimanjaro should brace for frosty evenings, with temperatures expected to dip below 10°C.
The early-morning chill will be felt in counties such as Nyandarua, Nyeri, Kiambu, and Murang’a, often beginning with cloud cover before clearing up to sunny intervals.
It’s a stark reminder that Kenyan weather can swing from tropical to tundra in a matter of hours—sometimes within the same county.
Out west, regions around Lake Victoria and the Highlands West of the Rift Valley—including Kakamega, Bungoma, and Uasin Gishu—will experience dry and sunny mornings, though the skies may play tricks later in the day.
Stay Alert, Stay Informed
The Kenya Meteorological Department has doubled down on its message: stay weather-aware. With shifting patterns and unpredictable extremes, preparation is key.
From potential flash floods to heat-sensitive livelihoods, communities are advised to monitor local updates and follow safety guidance from relevant authorities.
“We’re still in the long rains season,” the department reiterated. “Weather patterns can shift quickly. Stay alert.”
As Kenya navigates another week of climate unpredictability, it’s clear that flexibility is not just a fashion tip—it’s a survival strategy.
