The skies over Nairobi and much of Kenya are expected to darken from Thursday, as the national weather agency warns of a five-day spell of rain, wind and chilly conditions across six key regions.
In a forecast released Wednesday, the Kenya Meteorological Department said the unsettled weather is expected to last through Monday, June 30, affecting areas both east and west of the Rift Valley—including the capital, the Lake Victoria Basin, and parts of the Coast.
“Residents should expect cold mornings, rain in the afternoons, and significantly cooler nights in most parts of the country,” the agency said in its latest bulletin.
Brace for the Cold
For Nairobi, Nyeri, Eldoret, Nakuru and Kisumu, the weatherman predicted cloudy mornings followed by showers or thunderstorms through to next week.
Daytime highs in the capital are expected to hover between 25°C and 27°C, but night-time lows may drop to as little as 6°C in some suburbs—well below typical seasonal averages.
“It’s a cold stretch,” said David Koross, a Nairobi-based weather analyst. “If you usually sleep with a single blanket, now might be the time to double up.”
Warnings for the Coast and Inland Regions
Coastal counties such as Mombasa, Lamu, and Kwale will see intermittent showers on Thursday and Monday, punctuated by brief sunny spells. Daytime temperatures are forecast to remain around 30°C to 31°C.
Further inland, Kitui and Machakos will begin the day under grey skies, though sunshine is expected by mid-morning. Minimum temperatures may dip to 10°C to 12°C overnight.
The department also flagged strong winds—especially along the coast, North Eastern, and South Eastern Kenya. Speeds could exceed 25 knots (about 46 km/h), posing a risk to small boats and outdoor events.
“People should take necessary precautions,” the statement warned, “especially those engaged in fishing or coastal activities.”
Heavy Rains for Western Kenya
In Kisumu and Kakamega, afternoon storms are forecast throughout the five-day window, with nights remaining partly cloudy. Temperatures in these western towns may peak at 28°C.
Meanwhile, the arid north-western counties—including Turkana and Samburu—will see mostly sunny skies, though isolated showers may arrive by the weekend. Daytime temperatures could climb as high as 36°C.
Farther north in Mandera and Garissa, conditions will remain hot and dry, with highs expected between 36°C and 37°C.
A Nation of Contrasts
The forecast highlights Kenya’s striking regional contrasts—where one part of the country prepares for storms and soaking rain, another readies for searing heat and cloudless skies.
The Kenya Meteorological Department urged the public to remain alert and adjust plans where necessary.
“We advise caution,” the statement concluded, “especially in areas prone to flooding, slippery roads, or dangerous winds.”
As the weather turns unpredictable, Kenyans are reminded that when it comes to nature—preparedness remains their best umbrella.