The Kenya Meteorological Department has issued a heavy rainfall advisory warning of intense downpours expected across several parts of the country beginning Sunday, August 17, 2025.

According to the advisory released on Friday, August 15, the rains will intensify over parts of the Lake Victoria Basin, the Rift Valley, and the Highlands west of the Rift Valley, with amounts exceeding 20mm in 24 hours.

The system is projected to gradually spread eastwards into the Central and Eastern Highlands, including Nairobi, through Tuesday, August 19, before reducing in intensity from Wednesday, August 20.

The Met Department further cautioned that a strong south-easterly wind current, blowing at more than 25 knots (12.9 m/s), will continue to fuel the weather system in the eastern sector, heightening the risk of extreme conditions.

Counties expected to be most affected include Kisumu, Homa Bay, Siaya, Migori, Busia, Kisii, Nyamira, Nandi, Kericho, Bomet, Kakamega, Vihiga, Bungoma, Narok, Baringo, Nakuru, Trans Nzoia, Uasin Gishu, Elgeyo Marakwet, West Pokot, Turkana, Samburu, and Marsabit. Others under alert are Nyandarua, Laikipia, Nyeri, Kirinyaga, Nairobi, Murang’a, Kiambu, Meru, Embu, and Tharaka-Nithi.

Residents in the affected regions have been urged to remain vigilant against potential flash floods in low-lying and riverine areas, reduced visibility on roads and in aviation, and sudden surges in seasonal rivers.

“Residents in all the mentioned areas are advised to be on the lookout for potential flash floods and poor visibility. People living downstream rivers and along seasonal rivers should be careful since water may appear suddenly even though it may not be raining within the area,” the department warned.

The weatherman also advised the public to avoid driving or walking in moving water, refrain from seeking shelter under trees or near grilled windows during storms, and remain cautious of strong winds that may uproot trees, blow off roofs, and damage property.