Residents of the said counties have been advised to be vigilant regarding the coming rains, which will be accompanied by strong winds

Nyeri is among the counties expected to start experiencing heavy rainfall beginning today (October 26) as part of the El Niño phenomenon.

A weather advisory from the Kenya Meteorological Services Authority (KMSA) dated October 24 has listed a total of 45 counties set to experience rains of up to 20 mm daily between today (Monday) and end of this month.

Among the counties listed in the advisory include those found along the Coast, Northeastern, Highlands West and East of the Rift Valley, the Central Highlands and parts of the Southern Lowlands.

“Moderate to heavy rainfall exceeding 20 mm within 24 hours is anticipated over the counties in Coast, Northeastern, Highlands West and East of the Rift Valley, the Central Highlands (including some parts of Nairobi) and some parts of the Southeastern Lowlands from 24 th to 28 th October 2026. Peak intensity is expected between 26 th and 28 th October 2026, with the rainfall intensity projected to decrease by 30th October 2026,” read part of the weather advisory.

“The rainfall is likely to be accompanied by gusty winds and strong southerly to southeasterly winds exceeding 25 knots (12.5) m/s) over coastal, eastern and northern regions. High temperatures are also expected to persist in some parts of the country, particularly in the northern parts of the country”.

As a precautionary measure, residents of the said counties have been advised on the need to exercise extreme caution during the expected heavy rains in order to avert both human and property loss.

The weatherman has also urged relevant stakeholders (including the national and county government) to collaborate rescue operations in the event the rains lead to incidences that may threaten human lives.

“Note that flood waters may occur in areas where it has not rained heavily, particularly downstream. To ensure safety residents are advised to avid shelter under trees or near grille windows to minimize exposure to lighting strikes. Exercise caution while engaging in any maritime activities. Residents in high temperatures are advised to remain hydrated and avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight,” states the advisory.

Last week, the County Meteorological Services Director Peter Wambugu had told residents of Nyeri should expect to witness a significant amount of rain beginning October 23.

Wambugu has told KNA the showers which form part of the October –November –December short rains would eventually intensify in the coming days.

Earlier this month, the Kenya Meteorological Services Authority (KMSA) had reported that the much anticipated EL Nino rains were to commence from October 8 and continue into January next year.

However, many parts of the country remain dry after the much anticipated rains failed to come down as many had hoped.

While commenting on the matter, Wambugu urged farmers to liaise with agricultural extension officers in their respective localities on when to do their planting.

“The rains are coming and the public need not doubt about this be s at all on this matter. As Kenya Meteorological Services Authority we are telling our people to wait for the rains beginning October 23 and October 24. From then we expect the rains to increase in intensity as days’ progress just like in any normal rainy cycle,” assured the officer.

In its seasonal forecast for the October-November -December weather outlook, KMSA had predicted that most parts of the country will experience above-average rains.

Only the county of Turkana and a few parts of West Pokot, Samburu and Marsabit were predicted to receive near-average rainfall during this season.

Mean temperatures were expected to be warmer than average throughout the country.

In total, 18 counties had been put on red alert of being at risk of flooding and mudslides from the heavy rains.

"October marks the onset of the October–November–December ‘Short Rains’ over much of Kenya. The month is particularly important to counties such as Meru, Tharaka-Nithi, Murang’a, Embu and Busia where more than 200mm of rainfall is received,” read the weather outlook dated September 30.

Above-average rainfall was expected in Makueni, Kajiado, Machakos, Nairobi, Kiambu, Kirinyaga, Isiolo, Nyandarua, Nyeri and parts of Taita Taveta, Laikipia, Tana River, Garissa, Wajir, Marsabit and Narok counties.

The report also outlined potential impacts of the rains on both man and environment.

For instance, while the rain is expected to improve soil moisture, boost agricultural production and improve water and pasture availability for animals, KMSA warned the deluge could also lead to waterlogging, delayed farm operations, increased crop diseases and challenges in transporting farm produce.

The authority further warned of the likelihood of outbreaks of waterborne diseases such as malaria in poorly drained areas and threats of flash floods, landslides and localised infrastructure damage.

“Above-average rainfall is likely to increase river flows, replenish dams, water pans, and groundwater resources, and improve water availability for domestic, agricultural, and industrial use.

In arid and semi-arid regions, the rains may contribute significantly to the recovery of water sources that are often stressed during the dry season.

At the same time, heavy rainfall could increase runoff and cause localised flooding in some catchments, especially where drainage systems are inadequate,” pointed out the September report