Expect Heavy Rainfall, Strong Winds and Freezing Nights in the following Regions across the Country

Kenya is set to experience a dramatic clash of weather extremes in the first week of the New Year, with the Kenya Meteorological Department (KMD) forecasting a mix of torrential downpours, blistering daytime heat, and surprisingly cold nights.

Rain Doesn’t Rest for the New Year

Forget a dry start to 2026. The KMD warns that significant rainfall, including isolated thunderstorms, will persist until around January 5th in several regions. The wet spell will particularly drench counties in the Coastal region like Mombasa, Kilifi, Lamu, and Kwale. It doesn’t stop there—areas in the Northeastern and Southeastern lowlands, including Garissa, Kitui, and Kajiado, are also slated for heavy rains.

The rainfall will also continue in the Lake Victoria Basin, the Rift Valley, parts of Northwestern Kenya, and the highland regions. This includes counties in the Highlands West of the Rift Valley (like Uasin Gishu, Nandi, and Kericho) and the Highlands East (including Nairobi, Nyeri, and Meru).

Extreme Temperature Swing Warning

In a stark contrast, Kenyans must prepare for a wild temperature ride alongside the rain. The KMD anticipates significant variations where you could swelter by day and shiver by night.

• Scorching Days: Daytime temperatures are predicted to soar above 30°C in the Coastal, Northeastern, Northwestern, and Southeastern lowland regions, as well as in parts of the Rift Valley and Western Kenya.
• Chilly Nights: Conversely, pack an extra blanket. Nighttime temperatures may plunge below 10°C in sections of the central highlands, the North and Central Rift Valley, Western Kenya, and areas adjacent to Mount Kilimanjaro.

A Brief Respite in Sight

This latest advisory follows a prior warning for heavy rainfall between December 25 and 29, 2025. The good news? There’s a break coming. The department states that after this current wet spell, conditions are expected to shift to predominantly sunny and dry weather across most of the country for the remainder of the week.

Authorities continue to urge the public, especially those in flood-prone areas, to exercise extreme caution during this period of heavy precipitation. Stay informed, avoid driving through flooded areas, and prepare for the unexpected mix of weather as we ring in the New Year.