Dry Spell Ahead: Kenya Met Advises Farmers to Harvest and Store Crops Safely

The Kenya Meteorological Department (KMD) has forecast generally sunny and dry conditions across most parts of the country in July 2026, with only a few regions expected to receive rainfall.

According to the July 2026 Monthly Agrometeorological Bulletin, the Coastal region is likely to experience near- to above-average rainfall, while the Central Highlands and Nairobi will have cool, cloudy weather with occasional light rain.

KMD said the dry conditions will favour harvesting, drying and safe storage of mature crops, but warned that declining soil moisture could affect crop and pasture development in many areas.

Soil Moisture Expected to Decline

The department noted that soil moisture will reduce across most parts of Kenya because of the prolonged dry weather.

However, areas along the Coast and regions expected to receive occasional rainfall are likely to maintain favourable soil moisture levels that can support farming activities.

KMD also expects warmer-than-average temperatures in many parts of the country, while the Central Highlands and Nairobi will remain relatively cool and cloudy.

 KMD Has Urged Farmers to Take Advantage of Dry Conditions

The weather agency advised farmers to make good use of the dry weather by harvesting mature crops and storing them safely to reduce post-harvest losses.

“Farmers should take advantage of the prevailing dry conditions to harvest, properly dry, and safely store mature crops such as maize and beans to minimize post-harvest losses.”

For crops that are still growing, the department encouraged farmers to conserve soil moisture through mulching and irrigate where possible.

It also urged farmers in areas receiving occasional rainfall to monitor crops regularly for pests and diseases and protect harvested produce from moisture.

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Mixed Outlook for Crops and Livestock

The bulletin says maize harvesting is ongoing in parts of Western Kenya, while crops in Machakos and Embu have already reached maturity.

Meanwhile, the expected rainfall along the Coast is likely to improve crop growth and pasture development.

However, pasture and crop moisture stress is expected to increase in drier regions, especially in northeastern Kenya, where little or no rainfall is forecast.

Livestock farmers have been advised to provide animals with enough water, supplementary feed and proper shelter during both cool nights and hot daytime conditions.

“Livestock keepers should provide adequate water, supplementary feed where pasture is limited, and shelter during cool periods and from daytime heat.”

Also Read: Kenya Met Reveals July Weather Forecast as Coldest Month Brings Rain, Strong Winds

June Weather Review

The department reported that most parts of Kenya received below-average rainfall in June 2026.

Lamu recorded the highest rainfall at 169 mm, followed by Msabaha (148.2 mm) and Malindi (147.5 mm).

Lodwar registered the country’s highest mean temperature at 30.8°C, while Nyahururu recorded the lowest at 14.8°C.

The Kenya Meteorological Department is encouraging farmers and pastoralists to continue following weather updates and seek guidance from agricultural extension officers to make timely farming decisions throughout July.

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KMD Forecasts Dry July as Farmers Advised to Harvest and Conserve Moisture
PHOTO/KMD