The Kenya Meteorological Department (KMD) has warned of heavy rainfall, strong winds and flash flooding in 40 counties of Kenya between February 25 and March 3, 2026.
KMD in a statement said residents in low-lying and riverside areas are advised to prepare for potential flooding. Strong winds could also cause structural damage and uproot trees.
In their latest update, the department warned that rainfall intensity is expected to decrease from March 1 over the Southeastern Lowlands, Coastal region, and Highlands East of the Rift Valley, including Nairobi.
However, heavy rains are forecast to continue over the Lake Victoria Basin and the highlands West of the Rift Valley until March 3.
“The current heavy rainfall of more than 20mm in 24 hours being experienced over several parts of the country,” said the department.
“Heavy rainfall of more than 20mm within 24 hours is expected to persist over the Lake Victoria Basin and the Highlands West of the Rift Valley until March 3, 2026,” the department said.
Areas of concern include western Kenya, the Lake Victoria Basin, the Rift Valley, the Central Highlands, parts of eastern Kenya, the Coast and sections of the north-eastern counties, including Isiolo, Marsabit and Garissa.
The weatherman urged residents to stay vigilant because of the risk of floods, flash floods, poor visibility and lightning strikes.
Authorities also advised the public to avoid crossing flooded roads, refrain from walking through moving water and avoid sheltering under trees or near exposed windows during storms.
“Heavy rainfall of more than 20mm within 24 hours is expected to persist over the Lake Victoria Basin and the Highlands West of the Rift Valley until March 3, 2026.”
Officials also warned that floodwaters could appear even in areas that have not received heavy rainfall, particularly downstream.
MG/as/APA