Kenya Met Issues 24-Hour Heavy Rain Warning for Nairobi and Surrounding Areas

Nancy Osumba 6 hours ago

The Kenya Meteorological Department (KMD) has issued a 24-hour cumulative rainfall forecast warning of widespread rainfall across the southern regions of the country.

In an update valid from 0900hrs Sunday, February 22, 2026, to 0900hrs Monday, February 23, 2026, the department indicated that several regions are likely to receive moderate to heavy rainfall, with isolated areas expected to record very heavy (severe) downpours.

According to the forecast, heavy to very heavy rainfall exceeding 50 mm within 24 hours is likely over parts of the Lake Victoria Basin, the Rift Valley, the Central Highlands, including Nairobi, and sections of the South-Eastern Lowlands.

Moderate to heavy rainfall ranging between 20 mm and 50 mm is expected across Western Kenya and adjoining areas, while moderate rainfall of between 5 mm and 20 mm may extend into parts of the South Coast and nearby inland regions.

However, northern and northeastern parts of the country are likely to receive little to no rainfall during the forecast period.

Possible Impacts

Kenya Met has warned that the anticipated rainfall could trigger localized flooding, particularly in low-lying and poorly drained areas.

“Residents in flood-prone areas are advised to remain alert as heavy rainfall may lead to rising river levels and flash floods,” the department cautioned.

Also Read: Kenya Met Warns of Four Consecutive Days of Heavy Rainfall, Lists Flood-Risk Areas Including Nairobi

Other potential impacts include reduced visibility, slippery roads that may increase the risk of road accidents, and rising river levels in flood-prone catchments.

Residents living near rivers, streams, and flood-prone zones have been urged to remain vigilant.

Advisory to the Public

The department has advised members of the public to avoid walking or driving through flooded roads and swollen rivers, as water levels may rise rapidly even in areas that have not experienced heavy rainfall.

Also Read:Nairobi Expressway Issues Safety Advisory as Heavy Rains Hit the City

“Members of the public should avoid walking or driving through moving water and continue to follow updates issued through official Kenya Met platforms,” the advisory read.

KMD encouraged Kenyans to stay updated through its official communication channels, including its website and mobile weather platforms, for timely updates and early warnings.

Further updates will be issued should there be any significant changes to the forecast.

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