The Kenya Meteorological Department has issued a fresh alert urging Kenyans to prepare for a week of intense rainfall, warning of potential flooding, rising health risks, and unusually cold conditions in several parts of the country.

According to its latest biometeorological bulletin, counties in the central and eastern highlands,including Nairobi, Murang’a, Nyeri, Embu, Kirinyaga, Meru, and Tharaka Nithi, are expected to receive heavy rainfall exceeding 50mm between April 7 and 13.

“Few places in counties such as Nairobi, Murang’a, Nyeri, Embu, Kirinyaga, Meru and Tharaka Nithi are expected to receive cumulative rainfall above 50mm during the forecast period,” the department stated.

The agency warned that such rainfall levels could easily trigger flooding, particularly in low-lying and poorly drained areas.

A similar pattern is expected across western and Rift Valley regions. Counties including Kisii, Bomet, Migori, Homa Bay, Kericho, Narok, Vihiga, Busia, and Kakamega are also likely to experience sustained downpours, raising concerns over flash floods and waterlogging.

In northern Kenya, Moyale in Marsabit County has been flagged as a high-risk zone despite having experienced prolonged dry conditions in recent months. Experts warn that the sudden heavy rains could lead to rapid runoff and localized flooding.

Health risks are also a major concern as stagnant water from the rains is expected to create breeding grounds for disease vectors.

“There is an increased risk of mosquito-borne diseases (malaria, dengue, Rift Valley fever, chikungunya) and waterborne diseases (cholera, diarrhoea, typhoid) due to rainfall and stagnant waters,” cautioned the Kenya Meteorological Department.

These conditions could significantly strain public health systems, particularly in areas with limited access to clean water.

At the same time, a drop in temperatures is expected across parts of the central highlands, with Nyandarua, Nyeri, and Meru counties likely to experience minimum temperatures of 10°C or below.

“Minimum temperatures are expected to be lower than normal with temperatures ≤10°C expected over some parts of Nyandarua (Nyahururu), and a few places in Nyeri and Meru counties,” the agency added.

The colder conditions are expected to increase vulnerability to respiratory illnesses, especially among children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing health conditions.

The weather department is now calling on residents to take precautionary measures, including draining stagnant water, avoiding flood-prone areas, and using mosquito nets. Those in colder regions have also been advised to keep warm and stay updated on weather advisories as the country braces for a potentially hazardous week.