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Weatherman gives update as long rains begin in several regions, including Nairobi
24th February, 2026 03:42 PM
The Kenya Meteorological Department has issued an update on weather conditions across the country as several regions continue to experience rainfall.
The weatherman noted that rainfall received since mid-February has met the criteria for the onset of the long rains in several regions, including western, central and highland areas.
Counties experiencing long rains
The onset criteria are defined as the receipt of at least 20 mm of rainfall within three consecutive days, with no dry spell exceeding seven (7) days thereafter.
“(KMD) has released an update on the onset of the March–April–May (MAM) 2026 Long Rains across Kenya. Rainfall received since mid-February has met the onset criteria in several regions, including western, central and highland areas,” the statement read in part.
Counties in Highlands West of the Rift Valley, Lake Victoria Basin, Central, and South Rift Valley of Bungoma, Trans Nzoia, Uasin Gishu, West Pokot, Elgeyo-Marakwet, Nandi, Kakamega, Vihiga, Bomet, Kericho, Kisii, Nyamira, Homa Bay, Migori, Kisumu and Busia, Baringo, Nakuru, Western Laikipia and Narok are among those experiencing the long rains, which began in mid-February.
Others are Highlands East of the Rift Valley, including Nairobi, Nyeri, Kirinyaga, Murang’a, Embu, Meru, Kiambu, Nyandarua, and Eastern Laikipia.
Long rains in other parts of the country are predicted to start between late March and mid-April.
“Other parts of the country are expected to experience onset between late March and mid-April,” the weatherman added.
Possibility of reduced rainfall
The update also highlighted the possibility of reduced rainfall and occasional dry spells from mid-March in some areas.
The highest seasonal rainfall amounts (greater than 300mm) are normally received over the Lake Victoria Basin, the Highlands West of the Rift Valley, the Central and South Rift Valley, the Highlands East of the Rift Valley (including Nairobi County) and the Coastal Strip.
Kenya Met added that rains are expected to continue over several parts of the country, and isolated heavy rainfall events may occur in the Central Highlands, Lake Victoria Basin, Rift Valley, South-eastern Lowlands, Coast, Western, and North-western Kenya.
