Heavy Rains, Hot Days: Kenya Met Issues Weather Alert as March Season Sets In

Kenyans should prepare for a week of contrasting weather conditions as the rainy season gradually takes shape. The Kenya Meteorological Department has projected increased rainfall intensity in several regions between March 3 and March 9.

According to the latest seven-day forecast, showers will become heavier and more widespread across the Central Highlands, Lake Victoria Basin and the Rift Valley. The Southeastern Lowlands, Western Kenya, the Coast, North-Eastern and North-Western regions are also expected to receive significant rainfall. In some locations, isolated heavy storms may occur.

“Rainfall is expected to increase in intensity and spread across several parts of the country during the period,” the department stated. It further warned of “moderate to heavy rainfall, with isolated heavy events” in the affected regions.

The update comes as March marks the climatological beginning of the long rains season. However, Kenya Met indicated that several areas have already met the official onset threshold. This means they have recorded at least 20 millimetres of rainfall over three consecutive days without a prolonged dry spell afterward. Regions that have achieved this benchmark include the Highlands East and West of the Rift Valley, the Lake Victoria Basin, sections of the Rift Valley, the Southeastern Lowlands and the South Coast.

At the same time, high temperatures are expected in other parts of the country. Daytime readings could rise above 30°C in the Coast, South-Eastern Lowlands, North-Eastern and North-Western Kenya. Meanwhile, colder nights are forecast in parts of the Central Highlands and Central Rift Valley, where temperatures may drop below 10°C. Areas near Mt. Kilimanjaro are also likely to experience chilly early mornings.

The evolving weather pattern signals a transition period. While farmers may welcome steady rainfall for planting, heavy downpours could disrupt transport and daily activities. Residents in flood-prone areas are encouraged to remain cautious as the week unfolds.