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Rainy morning in Nairobi? 5 things to do before leaving for work
19th September, 2026 04:29 PM
A rainy morning can quickly change the way people plan their journey to work, especially in Nairobi where heavy downpours can slow traffic, affect public transport and leave some roads difficult to use.
For workers who have to leave home despite the weather, taking a few minutes to prepare can make the morning commute safer and less stressful.
Here are five things to do before leaving for work on a rainy morning.
1. Check the weather before leaving
Before getting ready to leave, check the latest weather forecast and any available updates about heavy rainfall in your area.
Knowing whether rain is expected to continue can help you decide when to leave, what to carry and whether you need to change your usual route.
If you normally walk part of your journey, you may also want to consider whether the weather makes that option practical.
2. Check your route
Rain can affect roads differently. A route that is normally convenient may become slow or difficult to pass during heavy rainfall.
Check traffic updates before leaving and consider alternative routes if your usual road is heavily congested or affected by flooding.
Avoid attempting to cross flooded sections of roads or walking through moving water simply because you are trying to get to work on time.
3. Carry rain protection
A rainy morning is easier to manage when you are prepared. Carry an umbrella or raincoat and consider keeping an extra one at your workplace if possible.
A small waterproof bag can also help protect important items such as your phone, wallet, identification documents and other electronics.
For people who walk to work or use public transport, waterproof protection can also help prevent work clothes and shoes from getting soaked.
4. Give yourself extra travel time
Heavy rain can make a normal journey considerably longer. Traffic may move slowly, public transport may take longer to arrive and pedestrians may need to move more carefully.
Leaving home earlier can give you extra time without having to rush through potentially unsafe conditions.
It can also help reduce the stress that comes with arriving late after an unexpected delay.
5. Tell work if you expect a serious delay
If heavy rain has significantly disrupted your journey, communicate with your employer or supervisor as early as possible.
Instead of waiting until you are already late, send a brief message or make a call if your workplace allows it. Let them know that the weather has affected your commute and, where possible, give an estimated arrival time.
Most importantly, do not put yourself in danger simply to arrive at work on time. A delayed journey is easier to explain than an avoidable accident.
A rainy morning may be inconvenient, but a little preparation can make the journey to work safer and more manageable.
