The Kenya Meteorological Department has issued a heavy rainfall advisory affecting several regions across the country, with arid and semi-arid counties such as Marsabit, Turkana, Samburu and West Pokot urged to brace for possible flash floods and strong winds.
According to the advisory, the rains are expected to intensify from Sunday, August 17 at 3:00pm and persist until Tuesday, August 19 at 6:00pm, with more than 20 millimeters of rainfall in 24 hours projected in some areas.
The rainfall, currently pounding parts of the Lake Victoria Basin, Rift Valley and Highlands west of the Rift, will gradually spread eastward to counties in Central Kenya, Nairobi, and parts of Eastern.
The intensity is expected to reduce from Wednesday, August 20.
The weatherman has cautioned that the heavy downpour, combined with strong southerly winds of over 25 knots (12.9 m/s), poses risks to both lives and livelihoods.
Communities in downstream areas and those living along seasonal rivers in the ASAL counties are particularly vulnerable, as floodwaters may surge suddenly even where no local rainfall is observed.
Residents have been urged to remain vigilant, avoid crossing flooded roads or walking in moving water, and keep off open fields and trees to minimize exposure to lightning strikes.
Authorities have also warned that the strong winds may blow off roofs, uproot trees, and cause structural damage, heightening risks for pastoralist and farming communities in the north.
The advisory is addressed to key government agencies, humanitarian responders, and county authorities to step up preparedness and ensure timely response.
The Kenya Meteorological Department has asked residents in the affected counties to follow updates closely through official channels.