The Kenya Meteorological Department (KMD) has issued a stern warning to Kenyans as heavy rainfall continues to pound several parts of the country. In a seven-day forecast covering the period from 9:00 p.m. on Sunday, October 5, to Sunday, October 12, 2025, the department projects persistent showers and thunderstorms that could trigger localized flooding, especially in flood-prone areas.
According to the bulletin released on Monday, regions expected to experience the heaviest downpour include the Highlands West and East of the Rift Valley, the Lake Victoria Basin, and parts of the Central Rift Valley. Counties likely to be affected are Kakamega, Kisumu, Bungoma, Kericho, Nakuru, Uasin Gishu (Eldoret), and Narok, where rainfall is expected at different times of the day, occasionally accompanied by strong winds, thunder, and lightning.
KMD noted that other parts of the country, particularly the Coast, North Eastern, and Eastern regions, may experience intermittent drizzles and cloudy conditions with high humidity, which could disrupt outdoor activities and agricultural operations.
Risks and Warnings
The department cautioned that some of the rainfall events could lead to localized flooding, posing risks to communities living in low-lying and poorly drained areas. “We advise residents in flood-prone zones to remain vigilant, move to higher ground when necessary, and avoid crossing flooded roads or bridges,” the statement read.
Motorists have been urged to exercise extreme caution on slippery roads as visibility may be reduced during heavy downpours. “Drivers should slow down and avoid driving through flooded sections as fast-moving water can be deceptive and dangerous,” warned the KMD Director.
Emergency agencies, including the National Disaster Management Unit (NDMU) and county governments, have been placed on high alert to monitor potential landslides, particularly in areas such as Kericho, Elgeyo Marakwet, and West Pokot, where past heavy rains have triggered fatal mudslides.
Impact on Transport and Livelihoods
The rains have already begun taking a toll in some regions. In Kisumu County, flash floods were reported in parts of Nyamasaria and Manyatta, leaving several roads impassable. In Nakuru and Eldoret, public transport operators complained of delays and increased maintenance costs due to deteriorating road conditions.
Meanwhile, farmers in the Western and Rift Valley regions expressed mixed reactions to the weather forecast. While some welcomed the rains as a boost for late-season planting, others feared that the excessive moisture could damage maize crops nearing harvest.
“We are happy the rains are back, but too much water now could cause rotting of our maize and beans,” said Mary Atieno, a farmer in Vihiga County.
Climate Experts Weigh In
Experts warn that the current weather patterns could be linked to enhanced moisture influx from the Congo Basin and the Indian Ocean, consistent with global trends of extreme weather variability.
Dr. Evans Mukolwe, a retired meteorologist and climate analyst, told SIAYA TODAY that the current rains are part of a “transition period” typical of the October–December short-rain season, but the intensity points to wider climatic instability.
“We are witnessing the growing impact of climate change. Rainfall events are becoming more erratic — prolonged dry spells followed by sudden intense storms. This puts enormous pressure on infrastructure and local communities,” he noted.
Government and Public Response
County governments across the affected regions have begun mobilizing emergency response teams. In Bungoma, Governor Kenneth Lusaka convened a disaster preparedness meeting, urging residents to heed the warnings. “We have seen what happens when people ignore flood alerts. We cannot afford to lose lives again,” he said.
In Siaya, the county disaster committee has mapped out flood-prone areas along River Nzoia and Yala Swamp, ready to evacuate residents if water levels continue to rise.
KMD assured the public that it will continue daily monitoring and provide regular updates through its official platforms and the media. “We encourage Kenyans to follow verified information and disregard unverified reports circulating online,” the agency stated.
Context: A Season of Extremes
The heavy rainfall warning comes barely a month after prolonged dry spells left many regions grappling with water shortages. Now, the pendulum has swung dramatically, underscoring the unpredictability of Kenya’s climate.
As the short-rain season gains momentum, experts are urging national and county authorities to invest in early warning systems, drainage infrastructure, and community resilience programs to mitigate future disasters.
For now, as thunderclouds continue to gather over much of the country, Kenyans are being reminded that preparedness remains the best defence against nature’s unpredictable forces.
Editor’s Note:
Residents are urged to stay tuned to official KMD updates via meteo.go.ke and local radio stations for real-time weather advisories.
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