The Kenya Meteorological Department has issued a 24-hour weather alert, warning of rainfall across 11 counties and strong winds in parts of northern Kenya. The alert is valid from 9 pm on Sunday, September 27, to 9 pm on Monday, September 28, 2026. The department, under Director Edward Muriuki, released the forecast at 3 pm on Sunday, covering both the general national weather outlook and a county-by-county breakdown of expected conditions.
Counties expecting rainfall include Kakamega, Kisumu, Kericho, Siaya, Busia, and Bungoma in western Kenya. Along the coast, residents in Mombasa, Kwale, Kilifi, Taita Taveta, and Lamu counties should also expect some rainfall during the forecast period. The department's county-specific breakdown shows that conditions across most areas will range from partly cloudy to sunny intervals, with light showers expected only over scattered locations.
Temperature ranges across the counties covered in the forecast vary considerably. Nyandarua is expected to record the coolest conditions, with a maximum of 24°C and a minimum of 5°C. Mandera and Wajir are set to experience the hottest weather, with Mandera reaching a maximum of 37°C and a minimum of 25°C. The varying temperatures are likely to impact different regions in distinct ways.
The department also flagged a separate hazard for parts of northern Kenya, warning of strong southerly to southeasterly winds exceeding 25 knots, equivalent to 12.5 metres per second, over areas of Turkana, Samburu, Marsabit, and Isiolo counties. Residents and travellers in those areas are advised to take note of the elevated wind conditions, which could affect outdoor activities and road safety.
Governor James Orengo returned to his Siaya county to lead preparations for the forecast El Niño rains. The governor chaired a disaster management meeting as the county finalised its multi-hazard contingency plan and reviewed its early warning systems. Orengo’s return to county affairs followed weeks of opposition mobilisation linked to the 2027 General Election.
The Kenya Meteorological Department's forecast is part of its ongoing efforts to provide accurate and timely weather information to the public. The department has been working to improve its early warning systems and provide critical information to counties and residents to help mitigate the impacts of extreme weather events.
Residents in the affected counties are advised to take necessary precautions and stay informed about the latest weather conditions. The Kenya Meteorological Department will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as necessary. The public is urged to follow the department's forecasts and warnings to ensure their safety and the safety of those around them.
Key points
- The Kenya Meteorological Department has issued a 24-hour weather alert, warning of rainfall in 11 counties and strong winds in parts of northern Kenya.
- The alert is valid from 9 pm on Sunday, September 27, to 9 pm on Monday, September 28, 2026.
- Residents in the affected counties are advised to take necessary precautions and stay informed about the latest weather conditions.
