Heavy rainfall is sweeping across several regions of Kenya as the year draws to a close, with the Kenya Meteorological Department (KMD) forecasting that showers and downpours will persist through the start of the week and into the first days of January. The ongoing wet conditions are expected to affect a wide swath of the country, prompting authorities to warn residents to stay alert against possible flooding and travel disruptions.
According to the latest KMD forecast issued on Tuesday, December 30, rainfall will continue to be experienced in many areas, especially in the highlands east and west of the Rift Valley, the wider Rift Valley region, the Lake Victoria Basin and sections of north-western and north-eastern Kenya. Isolated thunderstorms accompanied by heavy downpours may also occur, increasing the risk of localized flooding and affecting outdoor activities and transport.
The Meteorological Department’s forecast indicates that these rains are part of the ongoing short rains season, which has brought above-average precipitation to many parts of the country. While the rains are expected to continue into early January, conditions are predicted to transition to predominantly sunny and drier weather later in the week in some regions.
The heavy rains have already prompted safety advisories from authorities and service providers. The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) has urged motorists, motorcyclists, pedestrians and cyclists to exercise extreme caution on roads affected by poor visibility, slippery surfaces and localized flooding as a result of the wet weather. Slower speeds, increased following distances and avoidance of flooded sections are among the recommended safety precautions for those traveling during the rainy conditions.
The Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) has issued a warning to tourists and tour operators amid widespread rainfall in several national parks and reserves. KWS cautioned that some areas have become waterlogged, posing risks to off-road travel and river crossings, and advised against venturing into flooded and unstable terrain while heavy rains continue.
Residents in low-lying and flood-prone regions are being urged to stay informed through official weather channels and take necessary preparations to protect property and life. As communities prepare to usher in 2026, the impact of persistent rainfall are a reminder of the importance of weather readiness and careful planning during the rainy season.
