The Kenya Meteorological Department (KMD) has issued a 24-hour rainfall forecast covering 25 counties across the country. Residents are warned to brace for wet conditions between 9pm on October 8 and 9pm on October 9, 2026. The forecast, published through its Numerical Weather Prediction and Data Assimilation System on Thursday, October 8, indicates that widespread rainfall is expected in parts of West Pokot, Siaya, Elgeyo Marakwet, Bungoma, Kakamega, Nakuru, Trans Nzoia, Kericho, Kisii, Homa Bay, Kisumu, Mandera, Wajir, Marsabit, Nyandarua, Meru, Nyeri, Embu, Kirinyaga, Tharaka Nithi, Kwale, Mombasa, Kilifi, and Lamu.
Beyond the rainfall alert, the department also warned of powerful southerly to southeasterly winds expected to exceed 25 knots, equivalent to 12.5 metres per second, over parts of Turkana, Samburu, and Marsabit counties in northern Kenya. The strong winds may pose a risk to residents, particularly those in the affected areas. The forecast spans a broad geographic range, from coastal counties such as Mombasa, Kilifi, and Lamu in the east to highland regions including Nyandarua, Nyeri, and Kirinyaga in central Kenya, and western counties such as Bungoma, Kakamega, and Siaya.
The rainfall distribution indicates that most regions of Kenya are likely to experience some wet weather during the forecast window. The arid north and northeastern counties of Mandera, Wajir, and Marsabit are also included in the alert, despite their typically dry conditions. Residents in the affected counties are advised to take precautions, particularly given the combination of heavy rain potential and strong wind warnings across northern areas.
The warning is significant as Kenya enters a period of heightened weather activity ahead of the short rains season. The Kenya Meteorological Department's forecast is crucial in enabling residents to prepare for the potential impacts of the rainfall and strong winds. The department's warning is also expected to inform decision-making in various sectors, including agriculture, transportation, and emergency response.
In other news, the Kenya Maritime Authority has warned of rough seas, strong winds, and heavy rainfall along the coast from September to December 2026. The advisory urged tourists, boat operators, and fisherfolk in Mombasa, Kilifi, Kwale, and Lamu to follow safety guidance. With hazardous conditions expected to persist for months, even routine sea trips could put passengers and crews at risk.
The Kenya Maritime Authority advised vessels to monitor official weather updates and seek safe harbour when necessary. The authority's warning is a reminder of the importance of prioritizing safety during this period of heightened weather activity. Residents and visitors are urged to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to minimize the risks associated with the forecasted weather conditions.
The Kenya Meteorological Department's forecast and the Kenya Maritime Authority's warning are critical in enabling residents and visitors to prepare for the potential impacts of the rainfall and strong winds. By taking necessary precautions and staying informed, individuals can minimize the risks associated with the forecasted weather conditions and stay safe.
Key points
- The Kenya Meteorological Department forecasts rainfall across 25 counties and strong winds in northern regions within 24 hours.
- The strong winds may pose a risk to residents, particularly those in the affected areas.
- The Kenya Maritime Authority warns of rough seas, strong winds, and heavy rainfall along the coast from September to December 2026.
