Heavy rains pounding Nairobi in the past/FILEThe Kenya Meteorological Service Authority has forecast rainfall in several parts of the country over the next seven days, with isolated storms also possible in some areas.
In its weekly forecast valid from October 9 to 16, 2026, the weatherman said rainfall is expected in Mandera, Wajir, Marsabit, Garissa, Tana River, Lamu, Kilifi, Mombasa and Kwale counties.
Other areas expected to receive rainfall include Kakamega, Vihiga, Busia, Bungoma, Kisumu, Kisii, Nyamira, Migori, Siaya, Homa Bay, Kericho, Nandi, Bomet, Nakuru, Elgeyo Marakwet, West Pokot, Baringo, Uasin Gishu and Trans Nzoia counties.
The forecast also covers Nyeri, Murang’a, Kirinyaga, Embu, Meru, Kiambu, Tharaka Nithi, Laikipia and Nyandarua counties.
Rainfall is also expected in some parts of Kitui, Makueni, Kajiado, Narok and Nairobi counties.
The department cautioned that rainfall distribution may vary across the counties, with isolated storms possible during the forecast period.
The latest outlook comes as Kenya progresses through the October-December short rains season, which the meteorological service has warned could bring above-average rainfall to several parts of the country.
In an earlier forecast, the weatherman listed areas expected to receive rain over a 24-hour period and warned of strong southerly to southeasterly winds exceeding 25 knots in parts of Turkana, Samburu and Marsabit counties.
The October-December season is an important rainfall period for Kenya, supporting crop production, pasture regeneration and water availability. However, heavy or persistent rainfall can also cause flooding, waterlogging, damage to crops and disruption of transport.
Earlier, the World Meteorological Organisation warned that the Greater Horn of Africa could experience wetter-than-normal conditions during the final quarter of 2026 as El Niño strengthens.
The organisation said enhanced rainfall could improve water and pasture availability but could also increase the risk of flooding, crop losses and damage to infrastructure.
Authorities have stepped up preparations for the expected rains, with the government activating a national response plan and placing emergency teams, evacuation centres and supplies on standby.
Residents have been advised to follow official weather updates and take precautions in areas vulnerable to flooding, particularly near rivers and in low-lying locations.
