Kenya braces for heavy rains and thunderstorms this week

Thursday marks the tipping point when Kenya's long-rains season shifts from light showers to heavy downpours across multiple regions.

Highlands east of the Rift Valley

• Nairobi, Nyeri, Meru, and Kiambu are all in the crosshairs.
• Morning rain hits isolated spots before spreading wider.
• Afternoon and evening thunderstorms will intensify through the week.

Western highlands and Lake Victoria Basin

• Kakamega, Kisumu, Bungoma, and Nakuru lead the list.
• Early-week sunshine gives way to frequent rain later.
• Nandi, Kericho, Bomet, and Narok are also flagged.

Southeastern lowlands and the coast

• Machakos, Kitui, Makueni, and Kajiado brace for heavier rainfall.
• Mombasa, Kilifi, Lamu, and Kwale get hit starting Thursday.
• Taita-Taveta and the inland Tana River areas are affected.

Dry zones stay mostly clear

• North-Eastern and North-Western Kenya remain largely sunny.
• Isolated showers could still pop up occasionally.

Flood safety reminders

• Never walk or drive through moving floodwater.
• Head for higher ground if water levels start rising.
• Track real-time alerts on Kenya Met's social channels.