The Kenya Meteorological Department (KMD) is warning of increased rainfall across many parts of Kenya for the week of September 16–22, 2025. While some areas will remain relatively dry, key regions should prepare for showers, thunderstorms, and other weather changes.
What the Forecast Says
The Kenya Meteorological Department has confirmed some of the areas that are likely to experience rainfall include;
- Central Highlands -that includes Nairobi
- Lake Victoria Basin
- Rift Valley
- Western Kenya
- Coast region
The also noted that some areas like Nyeri, Nyandarua, Murang’a, Kirinyaga, Kwale, and Kilifi may record rainfall exceeding 100 mm during this period. While the Coastal, North‑eastern and North‑western parts of Kenya are expected to be hot, with daytime highs above 30°C.
Meanwhile, nights will be cold especially in parts of the Central Highlands, the Central Rift Valley, and the Mt. Kilimanjaro region — lows dropping below 10°C.
Strong southerly to south‑easterly winds (over 25 knots, i.e., ~12.9 m/s) are expected over the Coast and territorial waters, and also in the southeastern lowlands, and northeastern & northwestern Kenya.
What This Means for Nairobi & Surrounding Areas
For Nairobi residents and those in the Central Highlands, they are to expect increased chance of showers and thunderstorms, particularly in the afternoons or evenings. Some heavier downpours may be possible.
Residents of these areas must prepare for cooler nights and it is advisable to ensure adequate covering, especially because lower temperatures can catch people off guard. They should also be alert for flooding or waterlogging in low-lying or poorly drained areas, especially if rainfall exceeds 100 mm in certain locations.
Risks & Possible Impacts
- Travel & transport: Heavy rains can lead to slippery roads, reduced visibility, and delays. Roads in poor condition could get worse.
- Urban flooding: Nairobi and other cities with drainage challenges may face waterlogging.
- Health: Cooler nights and wet conditions may increase respiratory illnesses. Also risks of standing water may cause mosquito breeding where drainage is poor.
- Agriculture: Beneficial for crops in many areas, but too much water can also harm seedlings or lead to soil erosion in hilly terrain.
What You Can Do to Stay Safe
With the rains almost coming the Kenya Meteorological Department has also provided safety measures for Kenyans to remain safe that is;
- Monitor weather bulletins daily (radio, KMD updates, mobile weather apps) as conditions can change quickly.
- Plan your travel smartly especially if you commute in the afternoon or evening when thunderstorms are likely.
- Ensure drainage that is clear gutters, storm drains, and surroundings where water tends to collect to avoid flooding.
- Prepare for cooler nights have warm clothing, bedding; ensure windows are sealed against cold and damp.
- Avoid flood-prone areas during heavy downpours — both for walking and driving.
- Secure loose items outside that could be displaced by strong winds.
Conclusion
This coming week’s forecast shows a mixed picture: warm, humid days in many parts, cooler and wetter nights in others; strong winds in some coastal and lowland zones; heavy rains in select counties. For Nairobi and Central Kenya, the focus should be on preparing for thunderstorms, keeping safe during downpours, and dealing with potentially colder conditions at night.
