Weatherman forecasts heavy November rains in western Kenya

News and Politics · David Abonyo · November 5, 2025
Weatherman forecasts heavy November rains in western Kenya
Rainfall. PHOTO/Istock
In Summary

However, the weather pattern is not uniform across the country. KMD forecasts near to below-average or depressed rainfall in the Highlands East of the Rift Valley (including Nairobi), Southeastern lowlands, Coastal areas, and most parts of the Northeast, where communities could face water shortages and poor crop performance.

The Kenya Meteorological Department (KMD) has issued a fresh advisory indicating that parts of western Kenya will continue to experience heavy rains through November 2025, while eastern and coastal regions face a likelihood of dry spells and below-average rainfall.

In its November 2025 climate outlook released on Tuesday, November 4, the Department warned that counties in the Lake Victoria Basin, the Highlands West of the Rift Valley, and parts of the Central and South Rift Valley are likely to receive near to above-average rainfall.

The prolonged rains could worsen the situation in areas such as Elgeyo Marakwet, where sustained downpours have already triggered landslides and localized flooding.

“The sustained rainfall in October led to soil saturation and inundation, resulting in rockslides, landslides, and localized flooding across some counties in the western region,” the Department noted, adding that the saturated soils heighten the risk of further slope failures in November.

However, the weather pattern is not uniform across the country. KMD forecasts near to below-average or depressed rainfall in the Highlands East of the Rift Valley (including Nairobi), Southeastern lowlands, Coastal areas, and most parts of the Northeast, where communities could face water shortages and poor crop performance.

“Rainfall will be unevenly distributed, with intermittent dry spells in several parts of the country,” the advisory stated.

Temperatures are also expected to remain warmer than usual nationwide, a condition that could compound the effects of erratic rainfall.

The Department warned that the contrasting weather patterns could have wide-ranging implications for agriculture, health, water, and transport.

In agriculture, KMD said the western region’s adequate soil moisture may support crop production but could also disrupt ongoing harvesting and storage activities. Meanwhile, the eastern and coastal counties may experience poor crop yields due to inadequate rainfall.

“Depressed rainfall in the eastern sector of the country may not sufficiently meet water needs; therefore, communities are encouraged to harvest and store rainwater and adopt efficient water-use practices,” the statement advised.

The Department cautioned that stagnant water could increase cases of malaria and other vector-borne diseases in wet areas, while dry and dusty conditions in eastern Kenya could lead to respiratory infections.

KMD also raised concerns about transport disruptions, warning motorists of slippery roads and possible flash floods.

“Motorists and pedestrians are urged to exercise caution during heavy downpours and avoid flood-prone routes,” the statement read in part.

Acting Director of Meteorological Services Edward M. Muriuki called on Kenyans to remain alert and make use of the Department’s forecasts to plan and mitigate weather-related risks.

“In support of the Government’s commitment to realize the vision of a climate-resilient country, KMD calls upon all citizens and stakeholders to utilize this climate information and advisories for planning and decision making,” Muriuki said.

He reaffirmed that KMD will continue issuing regular weather updates through its website, social media platforms, and WhatsApp channel to ensure timely access to climate information.

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