The Kenya Meteorological Department has warned of heavy rainfall expected across the country during the upcoming Idd-ul-Fitr celebrations.
The government, through special gazette notice declared Friday March20 to mark Idd-ul-Fitr celebrations.
According to the advisory, the rains will continue until Tuesday next week, with the intensity expected to peak between Friday and Monday before gradually easing. However, rainfall is still likely to persist in several regions, including the Lake Victoria Basin, the Rift Valley, and the central highlands, including Nairobi.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the Ministry of Interior said the heavy rains coincide with a period when many families will be travelling and gathering to celebrate the holiday.
“We urge all Kenyans to exercise extra caution, particularly in areas prone to flooding,” the ministry said.
Residents have been advised to avoid walking or driving through flowing water, remain alert for flash floods even in areas without heavy rainfall, and avoid sheltering under trees or near metal structures during storms. Those living in hilly areas such as the Aberdares and Mount Kenya slopes have also been cautioned about the risk of landslides.
Counties expected to receive heavy rainfall include Turkana, Samburu, Migori, Nyamira, Bungoma, Busia, Kakamega, Vihiga, West Pokot, Baringo, Elgeyo Marakwet, Trans Nzoia, Nandi, Uasin Gishu, Nakuru, Siaya, Kisumu, Homa Bay, Kisii, Kericho, Bomet, and Kiambu.
Other affected areas include Embu, Murang’a, Kirinyaga, Nyandarua, Nyeri, Laikipia, Tharaka Nithi, Meru, Nairobi, Narok, Kajiado, Makueni, Machakos, Taita Taveta, Kitui, Kwale, Mombasa, Kilifi, and Garissa. Parts of Marsabit, Isiolo, Wajir, Mandera, and Tana River are also expected to receive significant rainfall.
The warning comes amid ongoing flood impacts that have already claimed 73 lives, with seven people still missing. Authorities say 68,975 people from 13,795 households have been displaced, while more than 66,000 others have been affected, losing homes, property, and in some cases loved ones.
The situation has been severe in at least 21 counties, where floods have destroyed schools, markets, roads, and key infrastructure such as water and electricity systems.
In response, multi-agency teams, including the Kenya Defence Forces, National Police Service, Kenya Coast Guard Service, National Government Administration Officers, county governments, and the Kenya Red Cross, have been deployed to support rescue efforts, assist affected families, and restore essential services.
The government has called on Kenyans to remain vigilant and support one another during the holiday period.
“Even as we celebrate Idd-ul-Fitr, let us look out for one another, support vulnerable members of our communities, and follow safety guidance issued by authorities,” the ministry said.
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