NAIROBI, Kenya — The Kenya Meteorological Department has warned that heavy rains currently pounding Nairobi and surrounding counties are at their peak, with heightened risk of flash floods in urban and low-lying areas.
In Heavy Rainfall Advisory No. 02/2026, valid until March 9 at 7:00 pm, the department said the most intense rainfall is expected between March 4 and March 7.
It cautioned residents across the Nairobi Metropolitan area to prepare for sustained showers and thunderstorms.
According to the latest 24-hour forecast covering 9:00 a.m., March 4 to 9:00 a.m., March 5, several parts of Nairobi will receive moderate to heavy rainfall.
Areas likely to be most affected include Westlands, Dagoretti, Roysambu, Kibra, Embakasi, Makadara, and Kamukunji, with rainfall totals ranging between 30mm and over 50mm in some pockets.
In neighbouring Kiambu County, moderate to heavy rainfall is forecast in Gatundu, Thika, Juja, Ruiru, Limuru and Kikuyu, with possible accumulations of 30mm to 60mm or more.
Parts of Kajiado County are expected to experience scattered heavy rainfall, especially in northern and western sections, while isolated heavy downpours of up to 50mm are forecast in areas of Machakos County, including Masinga, Mavoko, Machakos Town, and Kathiani.
The department warned that flash flood risk remains high in areas with poor drainage systems and in densely built urban settlements. Rivers downstream may also experience rising water levels.
“Never drive or walk through moving water,” the agency cautioned in its public advisory. It also urged residents to avoid sheltering under trees or near windows during thunderstorms due to the risk of lightning strikes and falling debris.
The advisory comes amid the onset of the long rains season, which typically runs from March to May. In previous years, heavy rainfall during peak weeks has led to flooding, displacement of families, and damage to infrastructure, particularly in informal settlements and flood-prone zones along riverbanks.
County disaster response teams have in the past been placed on standby during similar alerts, with authorities urging residents in vulnerable areas to remain vigilant and report emergencies promptly.
Weather experts note that rapid urbanisation, blocked drainage systems, and encroachment on riparian land continue to worsen the impact of heavy rains in Nairobi and its satellite towns.
The Meteorological Department advised the public to monitor official forecasts and updates through its website and verified communication channels as the peak rainfall period continues.
