The Kenya Meteorological Department has warned that Nairobi is among the regions expected to receive heavy rainfall starting today, which could lead to flooding.
In a statement delivered on Sunday night, Director David Gikungu announced that the heavy rains would begin on Sunday at 3 pm and persist until March 11 at 9 pm.
The rainfall is expected to exceed 20mm in 24 hours in parts of the Lake Victoria Basin, and the Rift Valley, among other regions.
''Heavy rainfall of more than 20mm in 24 hours is expected in parts of the Lake Victoria Basin, the Rift Valley, Highlands West and East of the Rift Valley including Nairobi area and southeastern lowlands on 9 March 2025,'' read a statement from Gikungu.
''The heavy rainfall is likely to intensify to more than 30mm in 24 hours and spread to part of northwestern Kenya on 10th March 2025. It is projected to reduce in intensity from 11 March 2025.''
The department has urged residents in the affected regions to stay alert for possible flooding, especially in low-lying areas, and to exercise caution while traveling.
The towns expected to receive heavy rainfall include Narok, Kericho, Bomet, Homabay, Siaya, Migori, Busia, Kisumu, Kisii, Nyamira, Nandi, Kakamega, Vihiga, Bungoma, and Baringo.
Other affected areas are Nakuru, Trans-Nzoia, Uasin Gishu, Elgeyo-Marakwet, West Pokot, Turkana, Marsabit, Nyandarua, Laikipia, Nyeri, Kirinyaga, Murang'a, Kiambu, Nairobi, Machakos, and Kajiado.
Kenyans living in the areas have been advised to be on the lookout for potential floods and poor visibility while driving on the road.
''Residents in all the mentioned areas are advised to be on the lookout for potential floods, flash floods and poor visibility. People are advised not to shelter under trees and near grilled windows to minimize exposure to lightning strikes. Updates will be provided promptly if there are any changes,'' Gikungu added.
However, the Department assured Kenyans that the rainfall is expected to gradually reduce in intensity from Tuesday, March 11.
Meanwhile, agencies including the National Intelligence Service, Kenya Red Cross Society, Kenya Maritime Authority, Kenya Ports Authority, Kenya Airports Authority, National Disaster Operations Centre, National Disaster Management Unit, media, government ministries, the Council of Governors, and County Directors of Meteorological Services have been urged to remain on high alert for emergency response and any arising situations.
