Kenya: Nairobi Braces for Heavy Rains and Flash Floods

What the report says

Nairobi and other parts of Kenya are preparing for a period of heavy rain, flash flooding and strong winds after the Kenya Meteorological Department issued an advisory on October 23, according to Capital FM via AllAfrica. The warning covers dozens of counties, with the heaviest rainfall expected from October 26 to 28 and rain forecast in several regions from October 24 to 28.

The department said areas likely to be affected include parts of the Coast, Northeastern Kenya, the Highlands west and east of the Rift Valley, the Central Highlands and the Southeastern Lowlands. Locations named in the alert include Nairobi, Mombasa, Kilifi, Kwale, Garissa, Wajir, Mandera, Kisumu, Nakuru, Kiambu, Machakos, Kajiado, Meru and Nyeri. Residents were told to stay alert for flash floods and poor visibility, including in downstream areas that may flood even if they do not receive heavy rain.

The advisory also warned of gusty southerly to southeasterly winds, especially in coastal, eastern and northern areas, and said ocean waves could exceed two metres on October 25. People involved in maritime activities were urged to be cautious, and the public was advised to avoid risky shelter during storms because of lightning danger.

The meteorological department said rainfall intensity should ease by October 30 and that it would issue further updates if conditions change. In general, such alerts are meant to help residents, transport users and coastal communities prepare for travel disruptions, flooding and weather-related safety risks.