The Kenya Red Cross Society has issued a nationwide alert warning that heavy rainfall expected between March 18 and March 24, 2026, could lead to flash floods and landslides in several parts of Kenya.
In a statement shared on X (Twitter) on Wednesday, March 18, the humanitarian organization cautioned that intense rainfall during this period could pose significant risks to communities, urging residents to remain vigilant and take necessary safety precautions.
The warning comes as some regions across the country continue to experience ongoing rainfall. It follows an earlier advisory issued by the Kenya Meteorological Department under the Ministry of Environment, Climate Change and Forestry, which indicated that rainfall intensity is expected to increase in the coming days.
According to the March 18 advisory, several areas are likely to receive more than 20mm of rainfall within 24 hours between March 19 and March 24. The rainfall is expected to peak between March 20 and March 23 before gradually reducing in intensity by March 24. However, light to moderate rains may still persist in some areas beyond this period.
Regions expected to be most affected include the Lake Victoria Basin, the Rift Valley, the Highlands both West and East of the Rift Valley, as well as Nairobi and coastal areas.
Counties likely to experience significant rainfall include Turkana, Samburu, Migori, Nyamira, Bungoma, Busia, Kakamega, Vihiga, West Pokot, Elgeyo Marakwet, Trans Nzoia, Nandi, Uasin Gishu, Narok, Kajiado, Makueni, Machakos, Taita-Taveta, Kitui, Kwale, Mombasa, Kilifi, and Garissa. Parts of Marsabit, Isiolo, Wajir, Mandera, and Tana River have also been identified as areas at risk.
The Meteorological Department has warned that flooding may occur even in areas that do not receive heavy rainfall directly, particularly in downstream regions where water flows from higher ground. In addition to flooding, reduced visibility caused by heavy rains could pose dangers to both motorists and pedestrians.
Residents in the affected regions have been urged to remain alert and prepare for possible flooding and landslides. Authorities have also advised the public to avoid crossing flooded roads or walking through moving water, as strong currents can easily sweep away both people and vehicles.
With the rains expected to intensify over the coming days, both government agencies and humanitarian organizations are emphasizing the importance of public awareness and preparedness to minimize risks and protect lives.
