Kampala, Uganda – The Kenya Meteorological Department (KMD) has issued a stark warning, predicting a period of heavy rainfall and strong winds across several regions of Kenya. A “YELLOW WARNING” advisory, released on August 15, 2025, at 5:00 p.m. East African Time, indicates that rainfall exceeding 20mm within a 24-hour period is expected to impact the Lake Victoria Basin, the Rift Valley, and the Highlands West of the Rift starting Sunday, August 17, 2025, at 3:00 p.m.
The downpour is forecast to extend to the Highlands East of the Rift on the same day and persist through Tuesday, August 19, 2025, before easing from Wednesday, August 20. Alongside the heavy rains, the eastern sector of the country is bracing for strong southeasterly winds with speeds surpassing 25 knots (approximately 46 kilometers per hour).
The advisory specifically names several counties that are likely to be affected, including Kisumu, Homabay, Siaya, Migori, Busia, Kisii, Nyamira, Nandi, Kericho, Bomet, Kakamega, Vihiga, Bungoma, Narok, Baringo, Nakuru, Trans-Nzoia, Uasin-Gishu, Elgeyo-Marakwet, West-Pokot, Turkana, Samburu, Marsabit, Nyandarua, Laikipia, Nyeri, Kirinyaga, Nairobi, and parts of Murang’a, Kiambu, Meru, Embu, and Tharaka-Nithi.
The KMD cautions residents in these areas to be vigilant for potential flash floods and significantly reduced visibility, which could pose hazards for motorists and pedestrians alike. The strong winds also present a risk of damage to infrastructure, including the potential for roofs to be blown off and trees to be uprooted. Lightning strikes are another significant concern, prompting advice against seeking shelter under trees or near grilled windows.
In a set of crucial instructions, the meteorological department urges people residing near rivers and seasonal watercourses to exercise extreme caution due to the risk of sudden water surges, even in areas where it is not actively raining. The public is strongly advised to avoid walking or driving through moving water.
The Kenya Meteorological Department has disseminated this vital information to key stakeholders, including The Presidency, various government ministries, the National Intelligence Service, the Kenya Red Cross, aviation and maritime authorities, disaster management agencies, and county governments, to facilitate preparedness and response efforts.
Residents are encouraged to stay informed about the evolving weather situation by following the KMD’s official WhatsApp channel: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaKL444FMqreWDdAch2n. More detailed forecasts and updates can be accessed on their website: https://meteo.go.ke, and through the FASTA-Ken platform: https://tinyurl.com/FASTAweather.
This weather advisory underscores the importance of proactive measures to mitigate potential risks and ensure the safety of lives and property in the face of the anticipated adverse weather conditions.
By; Luganda David Nsiyonna – NECJOGHA
