The Kenya Meteorological Department (KMD) has issued an alert warning that heavy rainfall expected in several parts of the country over the next week could increase the risk of flooding, flash floods, and poor visibility, particularly in low-lying and flood-prone areas. In an advisory on May 7, Kenya Met said the rains are forecast to intensify between May 8 and May 14, with some areas likely to receive more than 20 millimeters of rain within 24 hours.
The alert is in force from 6 pm on May 7 to 7 pm on May 14, 2026, with rainfall intensity expected to peak between May 10 and May 13.
According to Kenya Met, the ongoing rains over the Highlands West and East of the Rift Valley, the Central Highlands, and parts of the southeastern lowlands are likely to spread and intensify, with additional rainfall expected in parts of the north‑western region.
“The rainfall being experienced over several parts of the Highlands West and East of the Rift Valley, and Central Highlands including parts of the Southeastern Lowlands, is expected to intensify to more than 20mm in 24 hours, from 8th to 14th May 2026,” noted the department.
Kenya Met List Counties at Risk of Experiencing Heavy Rains
Kenya Met said the rainfall is expected to peak between May 10 and May 13, before gradually reducing from May 14. However, it cautioned that even as the intensity decreases towards the end of the advisory period, rainfall is still expected to persist in several regions.
Also Read: Kenya Met Issues Heavy Rainfall Alert for Parts of Kenya This Week
According to Kenya Met, continued rains will likely be in the Lake Victoria Basin, Highlands West of the Rift Valley, the Rift Valley, Highlands East of the Rift Valley, and the Central Highlands, including Nairobi, increasing the risk of flooding in low‑lying areas and along river catchments.
The department listed counties at risk of experiencing heavy rains, including 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, Nairobi, and Narok.
Kenya Met also warned that parts of Turkana, Samburu, Kajiado, and Machakos could experience heavy rainfall during the advisory period.
Increased Risk of Flooding, Poor Visibility and Landslides
Kenya Met warned that flooding may occur even in areas that do not receive heavy rainfall, particularly downstream, and urged residents to remain vigilant.
Also Read: Kenya Met Predicts When Heavy Rains Will Subside in May Weather Outlook
“Please remain vigilant for potential floods, flash floods, and poor visibility. Note that flooding may occur even in areas without heavy rainfall, particularly downstream,” warned Kenya Met.
Members of the public were advised to avoid driving or walking through flooded roads, moving water, or open fields, citing the danger of being swept away or of poor visibility.
Kenya Met also cautioned against taking shelter under trees or near grilled windows due to the increased risk of lightning strikes during storms.
The department further warned that people living in landslide‑prone areas, especially along the slopes of the Aberdare Ranges, Mt Kenya, and other hilly regions, should exercise extreme caution as the heavy rains could trigger landslides and mudslides.
