At least 45 counties are set to receive heavy rainfall, strong winds and large ocean waves from Friday evening, the Kenya Meteorological Department has announced.
In Advisory issued on Friday, October 23, 2026, the Department said moderate to heavy rainfall exceeding 20mm in 24 hours is anticipated from 6pm on October 24 to 9am on October 30, with peak intensity expected on October 28.
The weatherman warned that the rains will be accompanied by gusty winds and strong southerly to southeasterly winds exceeding 25 knots (12.5 m/s) over coastal, eastern and northern regions.
Ocean wave heights exceeding 2 meters are expected on Sunday, October 26, while high temperatures will persist in the northern parts of the country.
Counties likely to experience heavy rainfall?
The counties listed as areas of concern are Kwale, Mombasa, Kilifi, Tana River, Lamu, Garissa, Wajir, Mandera, Marsabit, Isiolo, Migori, Nyamira, Bungoma, Busia, Kakamega, Vihiga, West Pokot, Baringo, Elgeyo Marakwet, Trans Nzoia, Nandi, Uasin Gishu, Nakuru, Siaya, Kisumu, Homa Bay, Kisii, Kericho, Bomet, Kiambu, Embu, Murang’a, Kirinyaga, Nyandarua, Nyeri, Laikipia, Tharaka-Nithi, Meru, Narok, Kajiado, Taita-Taveta, Kitui, Machakos, Makueni and parts of Nairobi.
The Department cautioned that flood waters may occur in areas that have not received heavy rainfall, particularly downstream, and warned of poor visibility.
Residents in the affected areas have been advised to be on the lookout for potential floods and to avoid sheltering under trees or near grilled windows to minimize exposure to lightning strikes.
“Exercise caution while engaging in any maritime activities. Residents in high temperature regions are advised to remain hydrated and avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight,” the advisory states.
Meanwhile, the weatherman said high temperatures are also expected to persist in some parts of the country, particularly in the northern parts of the country.
“Residents in high temperature regions are advised to remain hydrated and avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight. Updates will be provided promptly if there are any changes,” the department advised.
The advisory is of moderate to heavy severity with a moderate probability of occurrence of 33 to 66 percent.
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