Kenya Met Warns of Late April Rain Surge, Flags Flood and Storm Risks Across Kenya

The Kenya Meteorological Department has issued a warning over a likely surge in rainfall towards the end of April, cautioning that the increased activity could trigger afternoon and evening storms in several parts of the country.

In its latest seasonal outlook for the March–April–May long rains period, the agency said most regions are expected to receive near-average rainfall, though distribution will vary widely across counties and time periods.

The forecast follows a notably wet March, when the onset of the long rains brought intense storm events in many parts of the country, including the Highlands West and East of the Rift Valley, the Lake Victoria Basin, Nairobi, and sections of the Southeastern Lowlands.

Some areas recorded extremely heavy downpours exceeding 100mm within 24 hours. In Nairobi, rainfall peaked at 160mm on March 6, contributing to severe flooding that caused widespread destruction and loss of life, with the national death toll reported at 110 as of April 1.

Kenya Met noted that rainfall activity is expected to remain relatively subdued in the first half of April before increasing significantly towards the end of the month.

The Highlands, the Rift Valley, and parts of western Kenya are projected to receive near-normal rainfall, while Northeastern counties such as Marsabit, Wajir, and Mandera are likely to experience above-average rainfall, increasing the risk of flash floods in those arid regions.

By contrast, the Southeastern Lowlands and parts of the Coast are expected to record below-average rainfall, with warmer-than-normal temperatures likely to worsen dry conditions.

The department has urged farmers in high-potential agricultural zones to improve drainage systems to prevent waterlogging, while advising communities in flood-prone areas to clear drainage channels and stay alert for possible flash floods and landslides.

Residents in arid and semi-arid regions have also been encouraged to prioritize water harvesting and efficient water use as rainfall deficits persist in some areas.

Kenya Met emphasized the importance of continuous monitoring of weather updates as the season progresses, warning that shifting patterns could quickly intensify risks in vulnerable regions.