By Ken Muthomi - Reporter
Kenya, May 04, 2026 - Heavy rainfall in most parts of the country is expected to subside in the second half of May, marking the end of the March–April–May 2026 rainy season, according to the Kenya Meteorological Department.
In its monthly forecast, the department has cautioned that heavy rainfall will persist in parts of the country during the first week of May. However, drier-than-average conditions are expected to prevail after mid-month.
While Highlands East of the Rift Valley, the Southeastern Lowlands, and Northeastern Kenya will experience reduced rain after May 15, Highlands West of the Rift Valley, the Lake Victoria Basin, the Coast, and parts of the Rift Valley and Northwestern Kenya will experience near-average to below-average rainfall until June.
Highlands East and West of the Rift Valley, the Rift Valley, and the Southeastern Lowlands are likely to experience cool and cloudy conditions, alongside a drop in temperatures, signalling the transition to the cold and dry season.
“July is expected to be the peak of the cold and dry season. Cold and cloudy days are likely to persist over several parts of the country. The cloudiness may be accompanied by light rains and fog,” the department stated.
“Minimum and maximum temperatures are expected to be lowest during this month. Mean temperatures in May–June–July 2026 are likely to be warmer than average throughout the country,” it added.
Residents in areas expected to receive continued rainfall have been warned of potential waterlogging, flooding of croplands, and damage to crops.
The department further cautioned that heavy rainfall in early May could increase the risk of river overflows, flash floods, and prolonged flooding in low-lying and downstream areas.
Transport and infrastructure disruptions are also expected, particularly affecting bridges, waterlogged roads, and flooded underpasses.
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Over the past week, the country has experienced severe flooding, resulting in loss of life, property destruction, and displacement of families.
In a statement on Sunday, the National Police confirmed that 18 people have died due to mudslides in Tharaka Nithi, Elgeyo-Marakwet, and Kiambu counties.
Residents in flood-prone and landslide-prone areas have been urged to remain vigilant and take precautionary measures.
“Multi-agency teams are actively engaged in search and rescue operations, evacuation of at-risk residents, provision of emergency relief supplies, and assessment of high-risk zones to prevent further loss of life,” NPS stated.
The department also warned of increased risks of water-borne diseases, contamination of water sources, and expansion of mosquito breeding habitats, particularly in areas expecting heavy rainfall in early May.
“Expected heavy rainfall during the first week of May sustains the threat of flash floods, landslides, and displacement in already vulnerable regions. Emergency response systems may experience prolonged strain due to repeated incidents rather than isolated events, particularly in high-rainfall zones,” the department stated.