The Ministry of Environment, Climate Change, and Forestry has issued a heavy rainfall advisory warning residents in multiple parts of the country to prepare for intensified weather conditions expected over the coming days

In a notice on Thursday, May 7, 2026, the ministry said the advisory will be in effect from Thursday, May 7, 2026, at 6:00 am through Thursday, May 14, 2026, at 7:00 pm.

According to the ministry, rainfall accumulations are likely to exceed 20mm within 24 hours in several parts of the Highlands West and East of the Rift Valley, and Central Highlands, including parts of the Southeastern Lowland.

“The rainfall being experienced over several parts of the Highlands West and East of the Rift Valley, and Central Highlands, including parts of the Southeastern Lowlands is expected to intensify to more than 20mm in 24 hours, from 8th to 14th May 2026,” the Ministry stated.

Counties of Concerns

According to the Ministry, the intensity is expected to peak between 10th and 13th May 2026 and spread to parts of the Northwestern sector, with the heavy rainfall anticipated to decrease in intensity from 14th May 2026.

Although the intensity may reduce toward the end of this period, the Ministry has maintained that rainfall is still expected to continue in the Lake Victoria Basin, Highlands West of the Rift Valley, the Rift Valley, Highlands East of the Rift Valley and Central Highlands (including Nairobi).

Likewise, the Ministry has listed areas of concern which include Migori, Nyamira, Bungoma, Busia, Kakamega, Vihiga, West Pokot, Baringo, Elgeyo Marakwet, Trans Nzoia, Nandi, Uasin Gishu, Nakuru, and Siaya Counties.

Other counties of concern include Kisumu, Homa Bay, Kisii, Kericho, Bomet, Kiambu, Embu, Murang’a, Kirinyaga, Nyandarua, Nyeri, Laikipia, Tharaka-Nithi, Meru, Nairobi, Narok, parts of: Turkana, Samburu, Kajiado and Machakos.

Govt instructions

Following the advisory, the Ministry has urged members of the public to remain vigilant for potential floods, flash floods, and poor visibility.

At the same time, the Ministry has warned that flooding may occur even in areas without heavy rainfall, particularly downstream.

To ensure safety, members of the public are urged to avoid driving or walking through moving water or open fields.

“Do not seek shelter under trees or near grilled windows to minimize the risk of lightning strikes; Those in landslide-prone areas, especially along the slopes of the Aberdare Ranges, Mt. Kenya, and other hilly regions, should exercise extreme caution. Updates will be provided promptly if there are any changes,” the Ministry stated.