By Abdullahi Salad - Reporter
MANDERA, 1 October 2026 – The town of Mandera is expected to see temperatures reach 37°C, as Somali-inhabited regions of Kenya face a spell of extremely hot days before the rains begin, according to the Kenya Meteorological Department.
Mandera is the hottest location in the region. Temperatures are forecast to reach 37°C on Thursday, and around 37°C again on Friday, the highest level expected this week, the Department says. Even at night, temperatures will not drop below 24–26°C, leaving residents with little relief from the heat.
In Wajir, Garissa, Dadaab and Elwak, daytime temperatures will range between 34°C and 35°C through the end of the week. Garissa and Dadaab are expected to reach 35°C on Saturday.
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However, a change is expected at the start of next week. From Monday, the chance of rain will rise to 65–75% across most of these areas, with temperatures falling to 30–33°C, according to the forecast. Garissa and Dadaab are expected to receive several consecutive days of rain.
The rains come as Kenya faces the threat of food shortages, with El Niño rains expected to begin in October.
Residents of these areas, particularly pastoralists, children and the elderly, are advised to drink plenty of water, avoid the sun during midday hours, and provide water and shade for their livestock. People living in low-lying areas and along the banks of the Tana River in Garissa should also prepare for possible flooding once the rains begin.