The Kenya Meteorological Department has stated that the March-April- May long rains have begun in some parts of the country, with the rest set to start soon.
Met stated that the onset of the rains is characterised by a wet spell with at least 20mm of rainfall over three consecutive days and no dry spell of at least seven days within the following 21 days.
“For the Northern part of the country, the accumulated rainfall should be at least 10 mm over three consecutive days,” it added.
The department noted that it confirmed onset of the rains between March 10 and March 16, at the Highlands West of Rift Valley, Lake Victoria Basin, Rift Valley, Nairobi and parts of the Highlands East of the Rift Valley, Southeastern Lowlands and parts of Isiolo County.
It said rainfall increased compared to March 3 to March 9, especially in the Southeastern Lowlands and parts of Northeastern Kenya.
“The remaining parts of the Highlands East of the Rift Valley and Southeastern lowlands are expected to have their onset this week,” Met said.
The weatherman said the onset for the Northeastern region is also expected this week between March and March 24, and next week March 25 and March 31.
However, this is likely to be followed by dry spells.
The Northwestern parts of Kenya and coastal regions are expected to receive occasional rainfall during the remaining part of March 2025.
However, this may not meet the onset criteria.
The peak of the season in the coastal region is expected to occur in May.
The onset is likely to occur in April in both regions.
In the forecast for the week, rainfall is expected to continue over several parts of the country.
Isolated heavy rainfall events are likely to occur in some areas, particularly over the Highlands East and West of the Rift Valley including Nairobi county, the Lake Victoria Basin, the Rift Valley, the Southeastern lowlands, and Northeastern Kenya.
Kenya Met advised residents in the regions to remain alert for potentially heavy downpours and take necessary precautions to ensure safety.
