Heavy Rainfall Warning Issued for Parts of Kenya; Met Department Urges Caution

The Kenya Meteorological Department has issued a heavy rainfall advisory for several parts of the country, warning of intensified downpours from Sunday, August 17, 2025 to Tuesday, August 19, 2025.

In a statement released on Friday, the weather forecaster projected that rainfall would intensify to more than 20mm in 24 hours in the Lake Victoria Basin, the Rift Valley and the Highlands West of the Rift Valley. The heavy rains are expected to spread to the Highlands East of the Rift Valley by Sunday.

The advisory lists a wide range of counties that will be affected, including Kisumu, Homabay, Siaya, Migori, Busia, Kitui, Nyamira and Bungoma.

Other regions on high alert are Narok, Baringo, Nakuru, Uasin Gishu, Elgeyo-Marakwet, West Pokot, Turkana, Samburu, Marsabit, Nyandarua, Laikipia, Nyeri, Kirinyaga and parts of Murang'a, Kiambu, Meru, Embu and Tharaka Nithi.

Residents in the listed areas have been urged to be on high alert for potential flash floods and poor visibility. The department warned that water levels in streams and seasonal rivers could rise suddenly, posing a risk to those living nearby.

The public has also been advised to avoid standing under trees or near grilled windows, which could attract lightning strikes, and to seek shelter indoors. Strong winds are also anticipated, which could potentially blow off roofs and cause structural damage. 

The advisory calls on all residents to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety.