The government has stepped up preparedness measures ahead of the October-November-December (OND) 2026 rainfall season, warning Kenyans to take early precautions against possible floods, landslides and other weather-related risks.
Government Spokesperson Charles Owino said relevant ministries, departments and agencies were working with county governments, humanitarian organisations and development partners to strengthen preparedness and response mechanisms.
“We are urging Kenyans to remain vigilant and take early precautions to protect lives, property and livelihoods,” Owino said in a statement issued on Thursday, September 17, 2026.
The Kenya Meteorological Department will continue monitoring the evolving weather situation and issue forecasts and advisories to guide preparedness and response at both national and county levels.
The government said it was particularly alert to the possibility of heavy rainfall in some areas, which could trigger flooding, landslides and disruption of transport and essential services.
Heavy rains could also result in damage to infrastructure and displacement of vulnerable households, prompting authorities to strengthen emergency response measures ahead of the rainy season.
As part of the preparedness measures, authorities are undertaking risk assessments and identifying areas considered vulnerable to flooding and other hazards.
The government is also strengthening early-warning communication systems to ensure communities receive timely information on emerging weather threats and appropriate response measures.
“The Government will continue to monitor the situation closely and provide timely updates as weather conditions evolve,” Owino said.
Residents living in flood-prone areas, along rivers and in other vulnerable locations have been urged to take precautionary measures before heavy rains intensify.
The government has particularly advised residents occupying riparian reserves to voluntarily relocate to safer areas as a precaution against possible flooding.
Members of the public have also been warned against crossing flooded rivers, roads and bridges, with motorists and pedestrians advised not to attempt to move through moving flood water.
Residents have been urged to keep away from riverbanks, drainage channels and other areas prone to flooding, while parents and guardians have been advised to ensure children do not go near flooded areas and water bodies.
Kenyans have further been advised to secure important documents, household property and livestock where possible and comply with evacuation instructions issued by authorised government agencies.
The government also urged members of the public to remain alert to official weather forecasts and emergency advisories and report emergencies promptly to relevant authorities.
Communities have been encouraged to work closely with local administrators, county governments and disaster response teams in identifying vulnerable people and facilitating early evacuation where necessary.
The government warned the public against spreading unverified information during the rainy season, urging Kenyans to rely on updates issued through official government channels.
“The Government calls on all Kenyans to make preparedness a shared responsibility,” Owino said.
He said early warnings should be followed by timely action by communities and authorities to minimise the impact of heavy rains.
“Early warning must translate into early action,” the Government Spokesperson said. The government said it would continue monitoring the OND rainfall situation and provide regular updates as weather conditions evolve.