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The Kenya Meteorological Department (KMD) has issued a warning over continued heavy rainfall expected across various parts of the country in the first week of May 2026, cautioning that it may trigger flash floods, landslides, and displacement of residents.
In its monthly outlook, the agency said several regions—including the Highlands East and West of the Rift Valley, the Rift Valley, the Lake Victoria Basin, the Coast, and parts of North Eastern Kenya—will continue receiving rainfall, with some areas likely to experience intense afternoon and evening storms accompanied by thunderstorms.
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KMD warned that the persistent rains increase the likelihood of flooding in low-lying areas, river overflows, and landslides in hilly and mountainous regions. Residents in high-risk zones have been urged to stay alert as soils remain saturated from previous downpours.
The department also noted that ongoing rainfall could worsen waterlogging, damage crops, increase soil erosion, and lead to nutrient loss in agricultural areas.
In addition, strong southerly to south-easterly winds exceeding 25 knots are expected in parts of North Western Kenya, North Eastern Kenya, the South Eastern lowlands, and along the Coast, potentially affecting marine and coastal activities.
Weather patterns are expected to vary by region. In the Highlands West of the Rift Valley, Lake Victoria Basin, and parts of the Rift Valley, scattered afternoon showers are expected throughout the first five days of May, with occasional morning and night rains in some areas.
In regions such as Turkana and Samburu, similar conditions are expected early in the month before easing, with brief sunny breaks forecast around May 4 and 5.
In the Highlands East of the Rift Valley—including areas like Nyandarua, Nyeri, Murang’a, Kiambu, Meru, Embu, Tharaka Nithi, and Nairobi—afternoon showers and cloudy conditions are expected to persist.
The monthly forecast indicates near-average to above-average rainfall in parts of North Eastern Kenya, while most other regions are expected to receive near-average rainfall, with some southeastern lowlands possibly experiencing below-average amounts.
KMD attributed the early May rainfall intensification to favourable atmospheric conditions linked to the Madden–Julian Oscillation (MJO), a weather system that influences rainfall patterns across tropical regions.
The department warned that the wet conditions could affect multiple sectors, including agriculture, where waterlogging, crop damage, and soil erosion are expected. Transport infrastructure may also be disrupted as roads and bridges become impassable due to flooding.
Public health risks were also highlighted, including the spread of water-borne diseases and increased mosquito breeding due to stagnant water.
KMD further noted that disaster response agencies may face increased pressure from repeated flooding and landslide incidents.
While May marks the gradual end of the long rains season in most parts of the country, rainfall is expected to continue into June in select regions before the transition to the cold and dry season.
Authorities have urged residents in vulnerable areas to remain cautious, monitor weather updates, and follow safety advisories.
