The Kenya Meteorological Department has warned Kenyans to expect heavy rainfall beginning Friday, September 17.

In a statement released on Tuesday, September 14 and signed as urgent, the weatherman warned of heavy rainfall in various parts of the country including the Rift Valley and Western Kenya.

“The rainfall being experienced over the Lake Basin, Highlands West of Rift Valley, the Central and South Rift Valley, parts of North-Western Kenya and parts of the Highland East of Rift Valley is likely to continue this week,” the statement read in part.

According to the meteorological department, heavy rainfall of more than 20mm in 24 hours is expected over western and central counties on Friday.

“It is likely to intensify to more than 30mm in 24hrs over western Kenya on Saturday 18 and Sunday, September 19. The heavy rainfall is projected to reduce in intensity and coverage on Monday, September 20,” the statement read.

The weatherman listed Uasin Gishu, Nandi, Trans Nzoia, Vihiga, Bungoma, Kakamega, Elgeyo Marakwet, Narok, Bomet, Kericho, Nakuru, Migori, Nyamira, Kisii and Homa Bay as areas of concern.

Also listed is Kisumu, Siaya, Busia, West Pokot, Turkana, Samburu, Baringo, Nyeri, Kiambu, Laikipia, Nyandarua, Muranga, Embu, Meru, Kirinyaga and Tharaka Nithi counties.

“Residents in all the mentioned areas are advised to be on the lookout for potential floods, avoid driving through or walking in moving water or open fields and not to shelter under trees and near grilled windows to minimize exposure to lightning strikes,” the wether man advised.

People residing in landslide-prone areas have also been advised to be on high alert as the meteorological department rolls out updates of any weather changes.