NAIROBI — The Kenya Meteorological Department has placed Nyeri and 44 other counties on a heavy rainfall advisory as moderate to heavy downpours exceeding 20 millimetres in 24 hours are expected across large parts of the country.
In an advisory issued late last week, the weatherman warned that the rains, accompanied by gusty winds and strong southerly to southeasterly winds exceeding 25 knots in some regions, would be felt from Friday evening through to around 30 October 2026. Peak intensity is projected between 26 and 28 October.
Nyeri features prominently among the counties listed in the Central Highlands. Other affected areas include Kwale, Mombasa, Kilifi, Tana River, Lamu, Garissa, Wajir, Mandera, Marsabit, Isiolo, 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, Laikipia, Tharaka-Nithi, Meru, Narok, Kajiado, parts of Nairobi, Taita-Taveta, Kitui, Machakos and Makueni.
Residents in the listed counties have been urged to remain vigilant for potential flash floods and poor visibility. Authorities noted that flood waters can occur even in areas that have not received heavy rainfall, particularly downstream.
The public has also been advised to avoid sheltering under trees or near grilled windows to minimise the risk of lightning strikes. High temperatures are expected to persist in northern parts of the country, with residents there urged to stay hydrated and limit prolonged exposure to direct sunlight.
The advisory comes as Kenya experiences the October-November-December short rains season, with above-average rainfall forecast in several regions.
