The Kenya Meteorological Department has announced that rainfall across much of the country is expected to decrease in the coming days, marking the gradual end of the long rains season.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, May 14, the Met Department noted that May traditionally signals the close of the long rains season, except for certain regions like the coast and western Kenya where rainfall may extend into June.
“May marks the end of the ‘Long Rains’ season across much of the country, except for the Coastal region and western Kenya, where rainfall typically extends into June,” the statement read.
The department said that the May 2025 weather outlook had projected near-average to above-average rainfall in many parts of the country. However, some areas, especially the north coast and parts of Garissa, were expected to receive below-average rainfall.
As the month progresses, the weatherman expects a gradual reduction in both the intensity and spread of rainfall, beginning Thursday, May 15. Nonetheless, some regions will continue to experience rainfall.
“A few areas over the Lake Victoria Basin, Highlands West and East of the Rift Valley, parts of the Rift Valley, Southeastern lowlands near Nairobi, and the Coastal region are likely to continue receiving rainfall, although with occasional breaks,” the statement added.
Conversely, northeastern Kenya and much of the southeastern lowlands are expected to remain largely dry, while isolated areas in the northwest may still receive occasional showers.
Looking ahead to June, the department forecasts continued rainfall in regions such as the Lake Victoria Basin, Highlands West of the Rift Valley, the Rift Valley, and the Coastal region.
The Met Department also cautioned that cold conditions are expected to set in, especially over the Highlands East of the Rift Valley including Nairobi, some Southeastern lowlands, and the highland areas of Marsabit County.
Residents are advised to prepare accordingly as the country transitions from the rainy season into a cooler, drier period.
