The Kenya Meteorological Department has issued a heavy rainfall advisory warning that several parts of the country are expected to experience intensified rains between May 8 and May 14, 2026, raising concerns over possible floods, flash floods, landslides, and poor visibility.
In an advisory issued by Kenya Met, the department said rainfall currently being experienced across the Highlands West and East of the Rift Valley, the Central Highlands, and parts of the Southeastern Lowlands is expected to intensify to more than 20mm within 24 hours during the forecast period.
According to the weather agency, the rainfall intensity is expected to peak between May 10 and May 13 before gradually reducing from May 14. However, light to moderate rains are still expected to continue in several regions including the Lake Victoria Basin, the Rift Valley, and Nairobi.
Counties expected to be heavily affected include Migori, Nyamira, Bungoma, Busia, Kakamega, Vihiga, West Pokot, Baringo, Elgeyo Marakwet, Trans Nzoia, Nandi, Uasin Gishu, Nakuru, Siaya, Kisumu, Homa Bay, Kisii, Kericho, Bomet, Kiambu, Embu, Murang’a, Kirinyaga, Nyandarua, Nyeri, Laikipia, Tharaka-Nithi, Meru, Nairobi, and Narok.
The advisory also highlighted parts of Turkana, Samburu, Kajiado, and Machakos as areas likely to receive significant rainfall.
The department cautioned residents to remain vigilant, warning that flooding may also occur in downstream areas even where heavy rainfall is not directly experienced.
“Please remain vigilant for potential floods, flash floods, and poor visibility,” the advisory stated.
Members of the public have been advised to avoid driving or walking through moving water and to stay away from open fields, trees, and grilled windows during thunderstorms to minimize the risk of lightning strikes.
The department further warned residents living in landslide-prone regions, especially along the slopes of the Aberdare Range and Mount Kenya, to exercise extreme caution during the period.
The advisory was addressed to various government institutions and emergency response agencies, including the Presidency, the Ministry of Environment, the Kenya Red Cross, the National Disaster Operations Centre, county governments, and media houses to support preparedness and response measures.