The Kenya Meteorological Department has issued a nationwide alert warning of heavy rainfall expected over the Idd-ul-Fitr weekend, urging Kenyans to remain cautious as adverse weather conditions persist into early next week.
According to the forecast, rainfall is set to intensify from Friday through Monday before easing slightly on Tuesday. However, showers are still expected in several regions, including the Lake Victoria Basin, the Rift Valley, central highlands and Nairobi. The timing of the rains raises concern as many families travel and gather to celebrate the holiday.
Residents have been advised to avoid walking or driving through flooded areas, remain alert for flash floods and stay away from trees or metallic structures during storms. Those living in landslide-prone regions such as the Aberdare Range and Mount Kenya slopes have been urged to take extra precautions.
Counties expected to receive heavy rainfall include Turkana, Samburu, Bungoma, Kisumu, Homa Bay, Kisii, Nakuru, Kiambu, Meru, Narok, Machakos and Mombasa, among many others across the country. Parts of northern and coastal Kenya are also likely to experience significant showers.
The warning comes as floods continue to affect several parts of Kenya, with authorities confirming dozens of fatalities and thousands displaced. Many families have lost homes, property and access to basic services due to the ongoing rains.
Floodwaters have damaged roads, schools, markets and key infrastructure, including water and electricity systems, making rescue and recovery efforts more challenging. In response, multi-agency teams have been deployed, including personnel from the Kenya Defence Forces, National Police Service and Kenya Red Cross.
Authorities are calling on the public to remain vigilant and support vulnerable members of the community during the holiday period. Kenyans are urged to prioritise safety as the country continues to face the impact of heavy seasonal rains.
