Kenya Braces for Weather Extremes: Heat Waves and Heavy Rains Ahead

The Kenya Meteorological Department has issued a warning for an unpredictable week ahead, as the country prepares for an unusual combination of extreme heat and heavy rainfall.

The forecast, covering October 8 to 14, reports significant temperature variations and diverse weather conditions across different regions of Kenya. Major urban centres such as Nairobi, Nakuru, and Mombasa are bracing for a challenging week, with residents expecting to face both scorching daytime temperatures and chilly nights. While a large portion of the country is set to experience heavy rains, particularly in highland areas, other regions will remain hot and dry. Coastal, North-eastern, and North-western Kenya are projected to see temperatures exceeding 30°C. Nairobi itself will experience highs of 26°C, with nearby areas like Thika potentially reaching a sweltering 31°C.

Conversely, nighttime temperatures are expected to drop dramatically, with some areas falling below 10°C, necessitating preparations for cold conditions following intensely hot days. The capital city will witness fluctuating weather patterns with daytime temperatures peaking at 26°C and nighttime lows potentially dropping to 11°C. Higher altitude areas such as Ngong may experience even cooler nights, with forecasts suggesting temperatures could plummet to as low as 10°C. Regions surrounding Lake Victoria, including Kisii, Kisumu, and Bungoma, are expected to receive consistent rainfall throughout the week.

Afternoon and nighttime thunderstorms are likely, providing essential water for agricultural activities but also raising concerns about potential flooding in low-lying areas. In the northern regions, counties like Turkana and Samburu will predominantly experience sunny days. Despite the heat, nights are anticipated to bring some respite with partly cloudy skies moderating temperatures. North-eastern counties, including Garissa and Wajir, will face sunny conditions though some areas may see light rainfall towards the latter half of the week. The Highlands East of the Rift Valley, encompassing regions like Nyandarua, Kiambu, and Meru, will experience cloudy mornings with occasional light rains.

These conditions are expected to clear by midday, giving way to sunny intervals. Afternoon and nighttime showers, though less frequent, are also possible in several counties within this region. Southern counties such as Machakos, Kitui, and Makueni are set for sunny intervals during the day. While generally dry, the meteorological department has cautioned that light rains may occur in the mornings, with a possibility of afternoon showers in certain areas. Mombasa and other coastal counties are preparing for significant rainfall, with showers expected throughout the day and night. Although the coastal belt has already experienced heavy rains, the forecast suggests these conditions will intensify, with precipitation spreading to more parts of the region.