Kenya's Meteorological Department has announced that Nairobi County and western Kenya regions are set to experience heavy rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms this weekend. The downpours are forecast to begin on the night of Friday, February 27, 2026, and continue through March 3. Over 40 counties have been placed on alert due to risks of flooding and impassable roads.
Kenya's Meteorological Department (KMD) has forecasted above-normal rainfall for 12 regions, including Nairobi, from February 27 to March 3, 2026. Showers accompanied by thunderstorms are expected on the night of Friday, February 27, the morning of Saturday, February 28, and into the afternoon across western Kenya, the Lake Victoria Basin, the Rift Valley, the Central Highlands, and the South Eastern Lowlands.
Nairobi, located in the Highlands East of the Rift Valley zone, is anticipated to receive moderate to heavy rainfall, with intensity peaking on February 28. "Nairobi is expected to experience moderate to heavy rainfall, with intensity likely to peak on February 28," stated the KMD in its latest bulletin. More than 40 counties are on alert, including Migori, Kakamega, Nakuru, Kisumu, Kericho, Kiambu, Murang'a, Nyeri, Meru, Kajiado, Machakos, Mombasa, Kilifi, and Tana River. Others on the watchlist are Nyamira, Busia, Vihiga, Baringo, Elgeyo Marakwet, Trans Nzoia, Nandi, Uasin Gishu, Siaya, Homa Bay, Kisii, Bomet, Embu, Kirinyaga, Nyandarua, Laikipia, and Tharaka-Nithi.
Parts of Isiolo, Marsabit, and Garissa are also included, although the North Eastern, North Western, and Coastal regions are largely expected to remain dry, with some areas possibly seeing light rain on Friday night and Saturday morning.
The department has warned of flooding risks, impassable roads, and reduced visibility, particularly for commuters in low-lying areas. Residents are advised to monitor official KMD updates and take appropriate precautions. Organizations like the Kenya Red Cross, along with road authorities such as KURA and KeRRA, have issued safety tips.