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Kenya Met urges residents in 41 counties to watch out for potential flooding
25th February, 2026 10:31 PM
The Kenya Meteorological Department has urged residents in 41 counties to remain vigilant amid ongoing heavy rains that could trigger floods and flash floods in several parts of the country.
In an advisory issued on February 25, 2026, the department said areas that experience rainfall exceeding 20 mm within 24 hours are likely to continue receiving heavy downpours through February 28, 2026, with some regions expected to continue receiving rainfall until March 3, 2026.
The weatherman indicated that while rainfall intensity is projected to decrease by March 1, 2026, in the southeastern lowlands, the coastal region and the highlands east of the Rift Valley, including Nairobi, are expected to experience heavy rains, while the highlands west of the Rift Valley are expected to experience heavy rains.
Counties listed as areas of concern include Migori, Nyamira, Bungoma, Busia, Kakamega, Vihiga, West Pokot, Baringo, Elgeyo Marakwet, Trans Nzoia, Nandi, Uasin Gishu, Nakuru, Siaya, Kisumu, Homa Bay, Kisii, and Kerich.
Other Countries include Bomet, Kiambu, Embu, Murang’a, Kirinyaga, Nyandarua, Nyeri, Laikipia, Tharaka-Nithi, Meru, Nairobi, Narok, Kajiado, Makueni, Machakos, Taita-Taveta, Kitui, Kwale, Mombasa, Tana River, Kilifi and parts of Isiolo, Marsabit and Garissa.
Residents have been cautioned that floodwaters may occur even in areas that have not received heavy rainfall, particularly downstream.
The department further warned of poor visibility and the risk of lightning strikes during thunderstorms.
“People 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. Updates will be provided promptly if there are any changes,” read the statement.
Weather forecasts
This comes a few weeks after the department has reaffirmed the critical role of accurate and reliable weather forecasts in safeguarding lives, protecting property, and conserving the natural environment, as climate-related risks continue to intensify across the region.
Speaking during the official opening of the 72nd Greater Horn of Africa Climate Outlook Forum (GHACOF 72) in Nairobi on Monday, January 26, 2026, KMD Director Edward Muriuki noted that weather and climate forecasts across the Greater Horn of Africa have significantly improved in accuracy and reliability.
“I am glad to note that our forecasts as a region have become more accurate and reliable and are now being used at national and subnational levels for planning and decision-making,” he stated.
He emphasised that the Kenya Meteorological Department, together with other National Meteorological and Hydrological Services (NMHS) in the region, remains committed to continuously providing timely and accurate weather and climate information.
According to him, the commitment is essential for the safety of life, the protection of property, and the conservation of the environment at the national level and at the grassroots through county meteorological offices.
Further, Muriuki explained that KMD’s work is reinforced through National Climate Outlook Forums (NCOFs) and Participatory Scenario Planning (PSP) workshops, which are held immediately after the Regional Climate Outlook Forums.
