Kenya Weather Service Predicts Rain for Rift Valley and Northeast as Rest of Country Stays Dry
Turkana County, 6 April 2026
The Kenya Meteorological Department forecasts contrasting weather patterns across the country, with rainfall expected in Rift Valley and northeastern regions whilst most areas experience sunny conditions. Strong winds exceeding 12.5 metres per second are anticipated over Turkana and Marsabit counties, creating challenging conditions for residents and refugee settlements in these areas.
Regional Weather Breakdown Shows Mixed Conditions
Edward Muriuki, acting director of the Kenya Meteorological Department, confirmed on 6 April 2026 that rainfall is expected over the Highlands West and East of the Great Rift Valley and in parts of the Northeastern region [1]. Specific counties in the Rift Valley and around Lake Victoria, including Nakuru, Uasin Gishu, Kisumu, and Kakamega, are likely to experience night showers and thunderstorms, morning sunshine, and isolated afternoon rains [1]. Meanwhile, highlands east of the Rift Valley, including Nairobi, may have light morning rains after overnight showers, followed by afternoon thunderstorms [1].
Northeastern Counties Face Intermittent Rainfall
The northeastern region will see varied precipitation patterns, with Garissa, Wajir, and Mandera counties expected to experience intermittent rainfall [1]. This weather pattern represents a continuation of the transitional conditions observed across Kenya, as the overall forecast for 4 April indicated a shift to drier conditions with isolated rainfall in specific regions [1]. The meteorological department issued this forecast on 3 April 2026, providing a 24-hour outlook for the country [1].
Strong Winds Create Challenging Conditions in Turkana
Particularly concerning for northern Kenya, strong southeasterly winds above 12.5 metres per second are expected over Turkana and Marsabit counties [1]. For Turkana County specifically, which hosts the Kakuma and Kalobeyei refugee settlements, the forecast indicates sunny intervals with possible isolated showers and thunderstorms near the Kenya-Uganda border [1]. These weather conditions present unique challenges for both host communities and refugees in the region, particularly affecting outdoor activities and transportation networks that are vital for camp operations.
Dry Conditions Dominate Southern and Coastal Regions
Counties in southern Kenya, including Machakos, Kitui, Makueni, Kajiado, and Taita Taveta, are expected to remain mostly sunny with only a slight chance of light morning rains and isolated afternoon showers [1]. The Coast region is forecasted to be mainly dry, though Tana River county might experience showers at night and light rains in the morning [1]. This geographical distribution of weather patterns reflects Kenya’s diverse climatic zones, with the arid and semi-arid northern regions experiencing different conditions from the more temperate central highlands and coastal areas [GPT].