The Kenya Meteorological Department has issued a 24-hour rainfall forecast warning of moderate to heavy rains across much of southern Kenya, with isolated areas expected to receive very heavy downpours.
The forecast, valid from 9:00 a.m. Sunday, February 22 to 9:00 a.m. Monday, February 23, indicates widespread rainfall in several regions, particularly in the southern half of the country.
According to the advisory, heavy to very heavy rainfall of 50 millimetres or more is likely over parts of the Lake Victoria Basin, the Rift Valley, the Central Highlands including Nairobi, and the South-Eastern Lowlands.
Western Kenya and adjacent areas are expected to receive moderate to heavy rainfall ranging between 20 and 50 millimetres, while parts of the South Coast and nearby inland areas may record moderate rainfall of between 5 and 20 millimetres.
Northern and northeastern Kenya are likely to remain largely dry during the same period.
The department warned that the increased rainfall could lead to localized flooding in low-lying and poorly drained areas, rising river levels in flood-prone catchments, reduced visibility and slippery road conditions.
In a separate update focusing on the Nairobi Metropolis, forecasters cautioned that rainfall intensity is expected to increase, with isolated severe weather conditions exceeding 50 millimetres within 24 hours in some parts of the capital city.
“Some areas may experience heavy to very heavy rainfall within 24 hours, accompanied by isolated storms, especially in the afternoon, evening and early morning hours,” the advisory noted.
Residents in affected regions have been urged to remain alert, avoid crossing flooded roads and rivers, and continue monitoring official weather updates.
The Kenya Meteorological Department said it will continue to monitor the situation and provide further guidance as necessary.
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