The government has intensified emergency preparedness and response measures ahead of the Eid al-Fitr celebrations, as forecasts of heavy rainfall threaten to disrupt travel and worsen an already severe flood crisis across the country.
In a statement, the Ministry of Interior and National Administration said multi-agency teams have been deployed nationwide to respond to emergencies, assist affected communities, and safeguard critical infrastructure as rains intensify from Friday through Monday.
The Kenya Meteorological Department has warned that downpours will affect large parts of the country, including the Rift Valley, Lake Victoria Basin, coastal regions and the central highlands, with Nairobi among areas expected to receive sustained rainfall.
“This period of heavy rain comes at a time when many families will be travelling and gathering to celebrate. We urge all Kenyans to exercise extra caution,” the ministry said, underscoring concerns over increased road traffic during the holiday period.
Authorities say the rains could significantly disrupt movement along major transport corridors, particularly in flood-prone counties such as Nakuru, Narok, Kisumu and parts of western Kenya, where roads and bridges have already been damaged by recent flooding.
The warning comes as the country grapples with the aftermath of deadly floods that have claimed at least 73 lives and left seven people missing.
Government data shows that nearly 69,000 people have been displaced, while tens of thousands more have been affected through loss of homes, livelihoods and property.
In response, coordinated operations involving the Kenya Defence Forces, National Police Service, Kenya Coast Guard Service, and the Kenya Red Cross Society have been scaled up to include search and rescue, evacuation support, and rehabilitation of damaged infrastructure.
“These teams are actively on the ground supporting rescue operations, assisting affected families, and restoring essential services,” the ministry said.
Engineers and county governments are also working to reopen key roads, repair drainage systems and restore electricity in affected areas, in collaboration with Kenya Power.
Officials have raised concern over the heightened risk of flash floods and landslides, particularly in highland regions such as the Aberdare Range and the slopes of Mount Kenya.
Residents have been urged to avoid travelling at night in flood-prone areas, refrain from crossing swollen rivers, and remain vigilant even in areas where rainfall may appear moderate.
“Be cautious of flash floods, avoid sheltering under trees or near metal structures during storms, and remain at high alert in landslide-prone areas,” the ministry cautioned.
Counties expected to receive heavy rainfall include Turkana, Bungoma, Kakamega, Kisii, Kericho, Embu, Meru, Machakos, Mombasa and Garissa, among others, with northern regions such as Wajir and Mandera also forecast to experience significant precipitation.
The government appealed for public cooperation and community support during the holiday period, noting that collective responsibility will be key to minimizing further loss of life.
“As we mark Idd-ul-Fitr, let us look out for one another and prioritize safety above all else,” the ministry said, emphasizing that adherence to safety advisories could help avert further tragedy.