Heavy Rains Alert: Kenya Met Warns of Flood Risk in 20+ Counties as June Cold Season Sets In

By Deborah Were 

 The Kenya Meteorological Department has issued a weather alert warning of heavy rainfall in more than 20 counties across the country over the next 30 days, raising concerns over possible flooding as the June cold season begins.

In its monthly weather outlook released on June 1, Kenya Met forecast near-average to above-average rainfall in the Lake Victoria Basin and coastal regions, with several counties expected to experience intense rain events, particularly during the first half of the month.

The affected areas include Kisumu, Kakamega, Vihiga, Bungoma, Siaya, Busia, Homa Bay, Migori, Kisii, Nyamira, Kericho, Bomet, Nandi, Nakuru, Uasin Gishu, Elgeyo-Marakwet, Trans Nzoia, West Pokot, Baringo and Narok.

Meteorologists noted that occasional afternoon showers originating from western Kenya could extend into parts of the Central Highlands, including Nairobi, where residents are expected to experience cool and cloudy conditions.

Along the coast, Mombasa, Kilifi, Lamu, Kwale and the Tana Delta are projected to receive near-to-above-average rainfall, with heavy downpours expected early in the month. The department also warned of strong southerly to south-easterly winds exceeding 25 knots (approximately 12.86 metres per second), which could affect marine activities and coastal communities.

Meanwhile, northeastern counties such as Marsabit, Mandera, Wajir, Garissa and Isiolo, together with Turkana and Samburu in the northwest, are expected to remain largely sunny and dry, receiving only isolated light showers.

The southeastern lowlands, including Machakos, Kitui, Makueni, Kajiado and Taita Taveta, are also forecast to experience generally dry conditions. However, elevated areas around the Chyulu Hills and Taita Hills may witness occasional cloudy weather and light rainfall.

Residents in the Central Highlands — including Nairobi, Nyeri, Kiambu, Murang’a, Kirinyaga, Meru and Embu — should prepare for cool temperatures, overcast skies and intermittent morning drizzles throughout the month.

Kenya Met further indicated that some areas in the Rift Valley and the highlands west of the Rift Valley could record below-average rainfall despite isolated heavy rain episodes.

The warning comes amid heightened concerns over flood risks following recent flooding incidents in Nairobi that affected at least 650 households. Authorities are urging residents living in flood-prone zones to remain vigilant, monitor weather updates and take precautionary measures to safeguard lives and property.

Disaster management agencies have also been placed on alert as the country enters a period traditionally associated with cold weather, heavy rains and increased flood vulnerability in low-lying areas.

Kenya Met has advised the public to stay informed through official weather forecasts and heed guidance issued by county and national emergency response teams.