Weather Whiplash: Kenya to See Heavy Rains, Freezing Nights, and Scorching Heat All at Once
Kenyans should keep their umbrellas, blankets, and light clothing nearby this week because the country is about to experience three very different weather patterns at the same time.
The Kenya Meteorological Service Authority has announced that heavy rains will pound several regions from Friday, May 8, until Tuesday, May 12, 2026. Western Kenya, Central Kenya, the Rift Valley, the Lake Victoria Basin, and parts of the Coast will be the hardest hit.
If you live in Siaya, Kisumu, Homabay, Migori, Kisii, Nyamira, Trans Nzoia, or Baringo, expect afternoon rains after cloudy mornings. The same goes for residents of Uasin Gishu, Elgeyo Marakwet, Nandi, Nakuru, Narok, Kericho, Bomet, Kakamega, Vihiga, Bungoma, Busia, and West Pokot. The weatherman says light showers may also appear around mid-morning before the heavier rains arrive later in the day.
Central Kenya counties including Nyandarua, Laikipia, Nyeri, Kirinyaga, Murang’a, Kiambu, Meru, Embu, Tharaka Nithi, and Nairobi will not only get heavy rains and thunderstorms but also some shocking nighttime cold. Temperatures in these areas are expected to drop to 9°C over the next five nights. That is unusually cold for this region, so residents should dig out warm blankets and dress children warmly before bed.
Meanwhile, counties in the coastal region like Mombasa, Kilifi, Lamu, Kwale, and the Tana Delta will see moderate rains, nothing too extreme. But here is the strange part. While some Kenyans are freezing at night, others will be sweating heavily. Northern Kenya and coastal counties will remain hot, with daytime temperatures soaring up to 37°C.
And if you live in the southeastern lowlands of Machakos, Kitui, or Makueni, do not expect much rain at all. Those areas will stay mostly cloudy and dry while other parts of the country get drenched.
With floods already seen along Waiyaki Way and in places like Parklands estate and the Nairobi CBD during past rains, authorities are urging Kenyans in the heavy rain zones to stay alert and avoid walking or driving through flooded areas. It is going to be a week of weather extremes, so whatever your county, be ready.
