By Dawan Africa - Admin
Kenya, September 21, 2026 - The Kenya Meteorological Service has warned Kenyans to prepare for floods, landslides and infrastructure damage as the country approaches the October–November–December (OND) rainfall season.
In a public advisory issued on Monday, September 21, the service said the expected El Niño conditions could disrupt transport and essential services and displace vulnerable households.
Kenya Met urged residents to avoid flooded areas, secure their property and move away from riverbanks before the rains intensify.
The warning comes as several parts of the country prepare for above-average rainfall during the OND season. The rains could place additional pressure on roads, drainage systems, homes and public facilities.
Kenya Met identified floods, landslides, infrastructure damage, transport disruption and the displacement of vulnerable households as the main risks.
People living near rivers, streams, drainage channels and low-lying areas face a higher risk when heavy rainfall causes water levels to rise quickly. The service urged residents in these areas to identify safer locations and move before flooding cuts off roads or homes.
Floodwater can block access to hospitals, schools, markets and workplaces. It can also hide open drains, deep potholes, damaged roads and fallen power lines.
Kenya Met warned motorists and pedestrians against crossing flooded roads. A road that appears passable can conceal deep water or damage beneath the surface.
Households should move important documents, medicines, food and other essential items to higher places. They should also secure property that strong winds or floodwater can damage.
The service also warned about landslides in areas with steep slopes, unstable soil and settlements below hills. Prolonged rain can saturate the ground and weaken slopes, causing soil and rocks to move without much warning.
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A landslide can destroy homes, block roads and isolate communities. Residents should watch for cracks on the ground, leaning trees, unusual soil movement and sudden changes in water flow.
People who notice these signs should leave exposed areas and follow evacuation instructions from local authorities. They should not return until officials declare the area safe.
Heavy rainfall can also damage roads, bridges, power lines, water systems and communication infrastructure. When roads become impassable, transporters can delay deliveries of food, fuel and medicines.
Flooding can prevent patients from reaching hospitals and disrupt learning when pupils and teachers cannot travel safely. It can also damage sanitation systems and contaminate water sources.
The severity of the impact will not depend on rainfall alone. Blocked drains, weak roads, settlements near waterways and delayed emergency response can turn heavy rain into a wider crisis.
The OND forecast provides a broad picture of expected rainfall over three months. It does not identify the exact road, house or settlement that will flood.
Kenya Met has therefore asked residents to continue monitoring short-term forecasts and local alerts. Rainfall conditions can change quickly, and neighbouring areas can experience different levels of rain.
For households near rivers, drainage channels and exposed slopes, the advisory carries a direct warning. Residents need to secure their property, identify safer locations and move early when conditions become dangerous.