Kenya is experiencing varied weather conditions today, Wednesday, October 7, 2026, as the country enters the October–December short-rains season. According to the latest forecast from the Kenya Meteorological Department, light to moderate rainfall is expected in parts of 23 counties, while some areas of northern Kenya could experience strong southerly to southeasterly winds. The forecast is valid through the evening of October 7 and covers western, central, eastern, northeastern and coastal parts of the country. 

The latest outlook shows that weather conditions will differ significantly from one region to another. Some counties are expected to have cloudy mornings followed by sunshine, while others may experience showers and thunderstorms. In northern Kenya, particularly parts of Turkana, Samburu and Marsabit, strong winds are expected, while the Coast is likely to experience morning showers followed by sunny intervals.

The forecast comes as Kenya begins the October–December rainfall season, which is an important period for agriculture, water resources and livestock across the country. The Kenya Meteorological Department has also warned that isolated storms in some areas could result in flash flooding. 

Nairobi County

Residents of Nairobi are expected to experience relatively cool and partly cloudy conditions, with the possibility of light rainfall in some areas. The capital is forecast to have temperatures of approximately 26°C during the day and 16°C at night.

Morning conditions may remain cloudy before sunny intervals develop later. Some parts of the city could receive light afternoon showers.

Motorists should exercise caution, particularly on roads that are prone to flooding or become slippery after rainfall. Pedestrians should also carry umbrellas because rainfall can develop quickly in some areas.

The beginning of the short-rains season is particularly important for Nairobi because heavy rainfall can cause temporary flooding in low-lying areas and disrupt traffic.

Kiambu, Murang'a and Central Kenya

Parts of Central Kenya are expected to experience cloudy conditions during the morning, with possibilities of light rainfall in a few locations. Counties such as Kiambu, Murang'a and Kirinyaga are among areas where residents should prepare for changing weather conditions.

The region may experience cooler mornings before temperatures rise during the day. Afternoon conditions could include sunny intervals, although isolated showers remain possible.

Farmers in the Central region are encouraged to pay attention to subsequent forecasts as the October–December rains become more established. The rains are particularly important for crops, water sources and preparation for the agricultural season.

Nyeri and Nyandarua

Nyeri and Nyandarua are among the counties expected to experience rainfall during the current forecast period.

Nyandarua is likely to remain one of the cooler parts of the country, particularly during the night and early morning. The county is expected to record temperatures as low as approximately 10°C in some areas.

Residents should therefore expect cool mornings and prepare for wet conditions in some locations. Farmers should also take advantage of the rainfall while ensuring that excessive water does not cause soil erosion or damage to crops.

Western Kenya

Several counties in western Kenya are expected to experience rainfall and thunderstorms.

These include Trans Nzoia, Kakamega and Bungoma, with nearby areas such as Busia also expected to receive light to moderate rainfall.

The forecast indicates that western counties could experience cloudy periods followed by afternoon showers and thunderstorms in scattered areas.

The rainfall will be important to farmers, especially those growing maize, beans, vegetables and other crops. However, farmers and residents should remain alert because thunderstorms can be accompanied by strong winds and lightning.

People working outdoors should seek shelter whenever thunderstorms become severe.

Busia, Siaya and Kisumu

Busia, Siaya and Kisumu are also among the counties expected to receive rainfall.

Kisumu is expected to experience cloudy periods, followed by showers and thunderstorms in some locations. Temperatures could rise to approximately 32°C during the day, with nighttime temperatures around 20°C.

Residents near Lake Victoria should remain alert to rapidly changing weather conditions. Fishermen and people using boats should pay close attention to weather warnings, especially when strong winds or thunderstorms develop.

The rainfall will also provide useful moisture for agricultural activities in the Lake Victoria Basin.

Kericho and Kisii

Kericho and Kisii are expected to experience light to moderate rainfall, with some areas potentially receiving afternoon showers and thunderstorms.

The conditions are significant for the agricultural economy of these counties. Kericho's tea-growing areas depend heavily on suitable rainfall and adequate soil moisture.

However, excessive rainfall can create challenges, including soil erosion, muddy roads and damage to infrastructure.

Residents should therefore monitor local weather developments, particularly when dark clouds and thunderstorms develop during the afternoon.

Nakuru County

Nakuru is among the counties included in the latest rainfall forecast.

Residents may experience cloudy periods and light to moderate rainfall, with showers occurring in some areas.

Nakuru's diverse landscape means that weather conditions can vary considerably between different parts of the county. Higher-altitude areas may experience cooler conditions, while lower-lying areas can become warmer during the afternoon.

Farmers are advised to use the rainfall carefully while ensuring that drainage systems are maintained around homes and farms.

Meru, Embu and Tharaka Nithi

Parts of eastern and central Kenya, including Meru, Embu and Tharaka Nithi, are also expected to receive rainfall.

The forecast indicates that some areas may experience cloudy mornings and light showers, followed by periods of sunshine.

These counties are important agricultural regions, and the rainfall associated with the beginning of the short-rains season could benefit crops and water sources.

Residents should nevertheless be cautious during thunderstorms because lightning can pose a serious danger to people and livestock.

Kirinyaga County

Kirinyaga is another county expected to experience light to moderate rainfall.

The weather may begin with cloudy conditions before improving during parts of the day. Farmers should use the rainfall to improve soil moisture while ensuring that excess water is properly drained from farms.

People travelling on rural roads should also be careful because rainfall can make unpaved roads muddy and difficult to navigate.

Mombasa County

At the Coast, Mombasa is expected to experience light morning showers followed by sunny intervals.

The forecast indicates temperatures of approximately 30°C during the day and 24°C at night.

Residents and visitors should therefore expect relatively warm and humid conditions. People travelling or engaging in outdoor activities should prepare for a possibility of brief rainfall during the morning.

The coastal rainfall is part of the wider transition into the October–December season.

Kwale, Kilifi and Lamu

Kwale, Kilifi and Lamu are also expected to experience light rainfall, particularly during the morning, followed by periods of sunshine.

Coastal communities should remain alert to sudden changes in weather, particularly where rainfall combines with strong winds.

In Kilifi and surrounding areas, isolated storms are possible, and such storms could result in localized flooding in areas with poor drainage.

The rainfall could nevertheless provide relief to farmers and improve water availability in some communities.

Mandera and Wajir

Northern and northeastern Kenya will experience some of the most dynamic weather conditions today.

Mandera and Wajir are expected to receive light to moderate rainfall, with showers and thunderstorms possible in a few areas during both morning and afternoon periods.

These areas generally experience hot conditions, meaning rainfall can produce a significant temporary change in temperatures.

Residents should be cautious when thunderstorms develop, especially because heavy localized rainfall can cause flash flooding even when surrounding areas remain relatively dry.

Marsabit

Marsabit is expected to experience rainfall in some areas, alongside strong winds.

The Kenya Meteorological Department has warned of strong southerly to southeasterly winds exceeding 25 knots, equivalent to about 12.5 metres per second, over parts of Marsabit, Turkana and Samburu counties. 

Residents should secure loose objects around homes and businesses and exercise caution when travelling through exposed areas.

Turkana County

Turkana is expected to remain one of the hottest areas of the country despite the changing weather conditions.

Temperatures could reach approximately 36°C during the day, making Turkana the area with the highest projected daytime temperature in the latest national forecast.

At the same time, strong southerly to southeasterly winds are expected in parts of the county.

People working outdoors should take precautions against excessive heat and dehydration, while residents should also be careful during periods of strong winds.

Garissa County

Garissa is expected to remain hot, with temperatures reaching around 34°C during the day.

Although Garissa is not among the 23 counties specifically listed for light to moderate rainfall in the latest 24-hour forecast, the wider weather pattern shows considerable variation across northern and eastern Kenya.

Residents should continue monitoring subsequent forecasts, particularly because October marks the beginning of the short-rains season.

Tana River

Tana River is another area where isolated storms may develop. Earlier forecasts for the beginning of the October short rains identified Tana River and Kilifi among areas where isolated storms could occur, with a potential risk of flash flooding. 

People living near rivers, drainage channels and low-lying areas should remain alert. Heavy rainfall upstream can also affect river levels even when rainfall is not particularly heavy at a person's location.

Strong Winds in Northern Kenya

One of the major features of today's forecast is the possibility of strong winds.

The Kenya Meteorological Department expects southerly to southeasterly winds above 25 knots over parts of Turkana, Samburu and Marsabit.

Such winds can create problems for motorists, cyclists, farmers and people living in temporary structures. Dust may also become a problem in particularly dry areas.

Residents are advised to secure roofing materials, outdoor equipment and other loose objects that could be blown away.

Impact on Farmers

The October–December rainfall season is extremely important for Kenyan agriculture.

The return of rainfall provides opportunities for farmers to plant crops, improve pasture and replenish water sources. The Kenya Meteorological Department has identified the onset of the short-rains season as an important period for agricultural planning.

However, farmers should avoid making decisions based solely on one day's rainfall. Weather conditions can vary considerably over short distances, and rainfall distribution may not be uniform.

Farmers should therefore continue following county-specific forecasts and agricultural advisories.

Flooding and Safety Concerns

Although much of the expected rainfall is described as light to moderate, isolated heavy storms can still cause flooding.

Urban residents should keep drainage channels clear, while people living close to rivers and flood-prone areas should remain vigilant.

Drivers should reduce speed on wet roads and avoid attempting to cross flooded sections where the depth or strength of flowing water cannot be determined.

Lightning is another concern during thunderstorms. People should move indoors or seek safe shelter when thunderstorms occur and avoid standing under isolated trees.

Overall National Outlook

Today's weather demonstrates the diversity of Kenya's climate. While western, central, eastern and coastal counties are expected to receive varying amounts of rainfall, northern Kenya will experience a combination of hot temperatures and strong winds.

The latest Kenya Met forecast identifies 23 counties for light to moderate rainfall: Mandera, Wajir, Marsabit, Isiolo, Trans Nzoia, Kakamega, Bungoma, Busia, Kisumu, Siaya, Kericho, Kisii, Nakuru, Nyandarua, Meru, Nyeri, Embu, Kirinyaga, Tharaka Nithi, Kwale, Mombasa, Kilifi and Lamu. 

The forecast is particularly significant because October marks the beginning of the country's October–December short-rains season. The Kenya Meteorological Department has already published a seven-day forecast covering October 6–12, 2026, as well as a five-day forecast covering October 8–13, allowing residents and different sectors to plan beyond today's conditions.