Weatherman warns of possible flash floods in several parts of country
The Kenya Meteorological Department has issued a warning of heavy rainfall expected to hit several parts of the country over the coming days.
In a weather advisory released on Saturday, August 16, 2025, the department noted that parts of the Lake Victoria Basin, the Rift Valley, and the Highlands west of the Rift Valley will continue to experience downpours.
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“The rainfall pounding parts of the Lake Victoria Basin, the Rift Valley and Highlands West of the Rift Valley is expected to intensify to more than 20mm in 24 hours and spread to the Highlands East of the Rift Valley on Sunday, 17th August 2025,” the advisory stated.
According to the forecast, the heavy rains are likely to persist up to Tuesday, August 19, 2025, before easing from Wednesday, August 20. The department also cautioned about strong winds.
“The strong southerly winds of more than 25 knots (12.9 m/s) being experienced over the eastern sector are projected to continue,” the weatherman said.
According to the weatherman, the counties likely to be affected include Kisumu, Homabay, Siaya, Migori, Busia, Kisii, Nyamira, Nandi, Kericho, Bomet, Kakamega, Vihiga, Bungoma, Narok, Baringo, Nakuru, Trans-Nzoia, Uasin-Gishu, Elgeyo-Marakwet, West Pokot, Turkana, Samburu and Marsabit. Others are Nyandarua, Laikipia, Nyeri, Kirinyaga, Nairobi, Murang’a, Kiambu, Meru, Embu, and Tharaka-Nithi.
Residents in these regions have been urged to be extra cautious as the heavy rains may cause flooding, poor visibility, and other risks.
“Residents in all the mentioned areas are advised to be on the lookout for potential flash floods and poor visibility. People living downstream rivers and along seasonal rivers should be careful since water may appear suddenly even though it may not be raining within the area,” the department warned.
The advisory also asked the public to take safety measures during the rainy period.
“Residents are advised to avoid driving through, or walking in moving water or open fields and not to shelter under trees and near grilled windows to minimise exposure to lightning strikes. Strong winds may blow off roofs, uproot trees and cause structural damage,” the statement read.
The warning has been addressed to several key institutions including the Presidency, the Cabinet Secretary for Environment, Climate Change and Forestry, the National Intelligence Service, the Kenya Red Cross, Kenya Maritime Authority, Kenya Ports Authority, Kenya Airport Authority, the National Disaster Operations Centre, the National Disaster Management Unit, the media, and county governments.
The department urged all stakeholders to remain alert and ensure preparedness in case of emergencies.
