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El Niño risk in Kenya: What to expect during October–December 2026 rains
28th September, 2026 04:31 PM
The Kenya Meteorological Department has warned of an El Niño risk as the country prepares for the October–December (OND) 2026 rainfall season, urging Kenyans to stay informed and take early measures amid the possibility of enhanced rainfall and associated weather hazards.
In a statement issued on Monday, September 28, 2026, ahead of the rainfall season, Kenya Met encouraged the public to use reliable early warning and climate information when making decisions concerning land, property and development.
“Risk of El Niño in Kenya 2026. As we approach the October–December (OND) 2026 rainfall season, timely access to reliable early warning and climate information from @MeteoKenya can support informed decisions on land, property and development,” the department said.
Kenya Met urged Kenyans to understand the rainfall outlook and prepare for possible weather-related impacts during the season.
“Know the rainfall outlook and what to expect during the season,” the department advised.
The meteorological agency also highlighted the need for Kenyans to understand areas that could experience enhanced rainfall and associated hazards.
“Understand areas at potential risk of enhanced rainfall and associated hazards,” Kenya Met said.
Kenya Met’s advice ahead of rains
The department also urged people involved in construction and land development to consider weather and climate risks before undertaking projects.
“Plan land development and construction wisely by considering climate and weather risks,” the statement said.
Kenya Met further called for early preparedness to reduce the possible effects of extreme weather on people and property.
“Take early action to reduce potential impacts on lives, property & investments,” the department said.
The warning comes amid preparations by authorities for possible displacement and flooding during the rainy season.
Counties told to prepare for displaced families
Counties have been urged to identify safe shelters that could accommodate families displaced by floods associated with heavy rains.
National Disaster Operations Centre (NDOC) Director Col (Rtd) David Samoei directed counties to identify suitable sites for temporary accommodation while cautioning against using schools as shelters because this could disrupt learning.
“We have requested that we don’t use schools,” Samoei said, adding that children displaced by floods should continue with their education and should not be disadvantaged because of their relocation.
He also emphasised that evacuation sites should be located away from flood-prone areas and have essential services such as water, sanitation, electricity and accessible roads.
WMO warning on El Niño impacts
The Kenya Met preparedness message also comes against the backdrop of wider concerns about El Niño and its potential effects on weather patterns.
The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) has previously warned that El Niño can influence rainfall and temperature patterns and contribute to extreme weather events in different parts of the world.
“El Niño will deliver a major blow to communities, economies & supply chains worldwide. Its local impacts may differ,” WMO warned.
The organisation has stressed that the impacts of El Niño vary depending on the region, making local and seasonal forecasts important when preparing for possible hazards.
For Kenyans, the Kenya Met has encouraged a proactive approach as the OND rainfall season approaches.
