Kenya Braces for Heavy Rainfall With Flooding Fears in Major Towns

Kenya is set to experience heavy rainfall this week, with the Kenya Meteorological Department warning of possible flooding in several regions

The downpours, expected to intensify through the evening, will affect the Lake Victoria Basin, Western Kenya, the Rift Valley, the Central Highlands, and the Southeastern Lowlands. Counties at risk include Siaya, Kisumu, and Homa Bay in the west, Nairobi, Nakuru, and Narok in the Rift Valley, as well as Kitui, Makueni, Machakos, and Kajiado to the south.

The Central Highlands, including Nyeri, Murang’a, Kiambu, and Meru, are also likely to receive rainfall. Although conditions are expected to be moderate, the Meteorological Department has cautioned that heavier rains could lead to flash flooding, particularly in vulnerable areas.

The Kenya Red Cross has urged residents to stay alert, advising against crossing flooded roads or bridges. The organisation has issued warnings about the dangers of sudden flooding and reminded communities to avoid moving water. People in need of assistance are encouraged to contact the Red Cross emergency line.

This forecast follows an earlier warning from the Meteorological Department, which predicted rainfall of over 20mm in several counties, with some areas expecting up to 30mm between 22 and 24 February. Acting Director Edward Muriuki also highlighted that the rains would spread to the Southeastern Lowlands and coastal areas before subsiding later in the week.

He further emphasised that flooding could occur even in regions not directly impacted by the heaviest rainfall, especially in downstream areas. Urban centres, particularly Nairobi, are expected to face significant disruption, as heavy rain often overwhelms the city’s drainage systems.