Kenya Red Cross warns Kenyans: Brace yourselves for super El Niño rains
By Katemarthason Okudo, May 8, 2026The Kenya Red Cross has raised concern over the possibility of Kenya experiencing a super El Niño during the October to December rainy season, a development that could heavily affect livelihoods, farming, and disaster preparedness across the country.
Speaking during an interview with a local radio station on Friday, May 8, 2026, Kenya Red Cross Deputy Secretary General Joe Mbalu said early climate focus reports are already pointing to the likelihood of intense rainfall later in the year.
“We know for a fact that the focus is already coming out for Kenya to experience a super El Niño in the next season, which is October, November, and December,” Mbalu said.
He noted that the October-December season is especially important for Kenya’s semi-arid and arid regions because it serves as the main planting period for many communities that depend on rain-fed agriculture.
“It is an important season for the semi-arid region since it is the main planting season. It determines food security for many communities in Kenya,” he said.
Mbalu added that humanitarian organisations are already looking at ways of supporting vulnerable communities before the rains begin, saying early preparation could help reduce losses and improve harvests if the season is managed well.
“Anything that can be done to help those communities have a good harvest becomes part of the humanitarian work,” he added.
The warning comes as memories of the devastating El Niño rains experienced in recent years are still fresh among many Kenyans. Previous heavy rainfall seasons left thousands displaced after floods swept through homes, roads, and farms in different parts of the country. Several counties also recorded landslides, destruction of infrastructure, and outbreaks of waterborne diseases.
However, experts have often pointed out that while El Niño rains can cause destruction, they can also benefit agriculture and water levels if there is proper planning and preparedness.
The Kenya Red Cross has, in recent years, been at the forefront of disaster response and climate awareness campaigns, especially in flood-prone and drought-affected areas. The organisation has repeatedly called for early action from both national and county governments whenever forecasts show signs of extreme weather conditions.
With months remaining before the expected rains, attention is now likely to shift toward preparedness measures, including support for farmers, drainage improvement in urban areas, and emergency planning in regions that are frequently affected by floods.
Climate experts are expected to continue monitoring weather patterns in the coming months as Kenya prepares for the crucial short rains season.