The Kenya Meteorological Department (KMD) has issued a weather advisory warning of heavy rains expected across several parts of the country beginning Sunday, August 17, 2025.
In a statement released Friday evening, the department said the rainfall, likely to exceed 20 millimetres within 24 hours, will initially affect the Lake Victoria Basin, the Rift Valley, and the Highlands West of the Rift Valley. The rains are then expected to spread to the Highlands East of the Rift Valley, including Nairobi.
“The rainfall pounding parts of the Lake Victoria Basin, the Rift Valley and Highlands West of Rift Valley is expected to intensify to more than 20mm in 24hrs and spread to the Highlands East of Rift Valley on Sunday 17th August, 2025,” read part of the advisory.
The weatherman further noted that the downpours will gradually ease from Wednesday, August 20, 2025. However, the department warned that strong southerly winds exceeding 25 knots (12.9 m/s) will persist over the eastern sector, posing additional risks.
Counties likely to be impacted include Kisumu, Homa Bay, Siaya, Migori, Busia, Kisii, Nyamira, Nandi, Kericho, Bomet, Kakamega, Vihiga, Bungoma, Narok, Baringo, Nakuru, Trans Nzoia, Uasin Gishu, Elgeyo-Marakwet, West Pokot, Turkana, Samburu, Marsabit, Nyandarua, Laikipia, Nyeri, Kirinyaga, Nairobi, Murang’a, Kiambu, Meru, Embu, and Tharaka-Nithi.
KMD has urged residents in the affected regions to remain vigilant against possible flash floods, poor visibility, and lightning strikes. The department cautioned that sudden flooding could occur downstream even in areas not experiencing rainfall.
“People living downstream rivers and along seasonal rivers should be careful since water may appear suddenly even though it may not be raining within the area,” the statement warned.
Motorists have been advised to avoid driving through moving water, while pedestrians are cautioned against crossing flooded areas or sheltering under trees and near grilled windows during thunderstorms.
Additionally, the strong winds could cause damage by blowing off roofs, uprooting trees, and destroying property.
KMD has urged the public to remain alert, follow official weather updates, and take precautionary measures to minimize risks associated with the expected heavy rains.
