The Kenya Meteorological Department has issued a comprehensive weather forecast for May 2025, warning of possible severe weather impacts across the country.
In the forecast, the weatherman has indicated that above-average rainfall is expected in most regions.
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Further, the advisory calls on Kenyans and relevant authorities to prepare for potential disruptions related to agriculture, health, infrastructure, and public safety.
Although May commonly marks the ending end of the Long Rains season in many parts of Kenya, the forecast indicates that rains in some areas will extend into the June–July–August (JJA) season.
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However, some areas, particularly along the North Coast and parts of Garissa County, are likely to receive below-average rainfall.
As per the forecast, the highlands East of the Rift Valley, including Nairobi, can expect the onset of the cool and cloudy season. Meanwhile, a gradual reduction in rainfall is anticipated towards the end of May in the Northeastern and Southeastern regions.
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Kenya Met on Regional Highlights of Expected Rainfall in May
Lake Victoria Basin, Highlands West of the Rift Valley, Central and South Rift Valley counties such as Kisumu, Siaya, Nakuru, and Bomet are expected to receive above-average rainfall, with occasional storms likely.
In Northwestern Kenya (Turkana and Samburu), rainfall is forecasted to be near average to above average, with occasional storms.
Furthermore, Highlands East of the Rift Valley and Nairobi regions including Nyandarua, Murang’a, Kiambu, and Nairobi will likely experience near-average to above-average rainfall with intermittent storms.
Additionally, Northeastern Kenya (Marsabit, Mandera, Wajir, Garissa, Isiolo); Marsabit and parts of Isiolo are expected to receive near-average to above-average rainfall, while Garissa may see below-average rainfall in some areas.
Kenya Met also indicated that counties in the Southeastern lowlands (Machakos, Kitui, Kajiado, Makueni, Taita Taveta) will experience occasional rainfall, with totals expected to be near average to above average and the possibility of storms.
Moreover, Coastal Region (Mombasa, Kilifi, Lamu, Kwale) will receive near-average rainfall as the region reaches the peak of its Long Rains Season. However, parts of Lamu may experience below-average rainfall.
Also Read: NTSA Lists Safety Tips for Motorists Driving in Wet Weather
Temperatures
Temperatures are forecast to be warmer than average in the Highlands East of the Rift Valley, Nairobi, the Coastal region, Southeastern lowlands, and Northeastern counties.
Meanwhile, cooler or near-normal temperatures are expected in the Highlands West of the Rift Valley, Central Rift, Northwestern counties, and the Lake Victoria Basin.
The month of May is also likely to be marked by isolated severe storms in various parts of the country, signaling the need for caution, particularly in flood-prone areas.
Weatherman Issues Warning to Kenyans and Benefits of Expected May Weather
Favorable rainfall is expected to boost crop yields in agriculturally productive areas such as the Highlands West of the Rift Valley, the Lake Victoria Basin, and parts of Central and South Rift Valley.
Farmers are encouraged to continue working with agricultural extension officers to optimize their harvests and manage land responsibly.
However, in arid and semi-arid lands (ASALs) in the north and southeastern lowlands, while the rains are expected to improve pasture and browse, authorities and pastoralists have been urged to conserve pasture as the rains taper off toward the end of the month to avoid shortages during the dry season.
Further, the Met Department has warned of likely flooding in low-lying areas and flood plains, especially in the Lake Victoria Basin, the Coastal region, and poorly drained urban centers like Nairobi.
County governments have been urged to clear drainage systems in advance to minimize damage, while the public is cautioned against walking or driving through flooded areas.
Additionally, the risk of lightning strikes remains high in areas such as Kisii, Nandi, Bungoma, and Kakamega.
Residents are advised to avoid sheltering under trees or near metallic structures during storms.
Also Read: Weatherman Lists Regions to Receive Heavy Rainfall Over The Weekend
Health Advisory Over Surge in Malaria and Waterborne Diseases
With wet conditions persisting in regions such as the Lake Victoria Basin, the Highlands West of the Rift Valley, and the Coastal areas, the Ministry of Health is on alert for outbreaks of malaria and waterborne diseases like cholera and typhoid.
Moreover, health facilities have been advised to stock up on medical supplies and distribute insecticide-treated nets, especially in flood-prone zones.
Public health campaigns around water sanitation, hygiene (WASH), and disease prevention are expected to intensify throughout the month.
Flash floods and structural damage to roads, bridges, and buildings are expected in several counties, including Nairobi, parts of the Coastal region, and the Rift Valley.
Drivers are urged to remain vigilant, avoid crossing flooded roads, and be prepared for delays and detours due to washed-out infrastructure.
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