Last Updated on March 19, 2025 by Turkana County News Online
The Kenya Meteorological department has officially declared the onset of the March-April-May 2025 long rains season, following significant rainfall recorded in several regions of the country.
According to a statement signed by Dr. David Gikungu, the Director of Kenya Meteorological Services, the season’s onset is defined by two key conditions: an accumulated rainfall of at least 20 mm over three consecutive days and a subsequent period of at least seven days without a dry spell.
The department confirmed that rainfall recorded between March 10 and 16, 2025, met these conditions in regions including the Highlands West of the Rift Valley, Lake Victoria Basin, the Rift Valley, Nairobi, and isolated areas of the Highlands East of the Rift Valley, Southeastern lowlands, and parts of Isiolo County. A noticeable increase in rainfall amounts was observed, particularly in the Southeastern lowlands and parts of the Northeastern regions.
While several areas have already received the expected rainfall, some regions are yet to experience the onset of the season. The remaining parts of the Highlands East of the Rift Valley and Southeastern lowlands are expected to receive rainfall within the week. Additionally, the Northeastern region is expected to receive rain between March 18 and 24, and possibly between March 25 and 31, though this may be followed by dry spells.
The Northwestern parts of Kenya and coastal regions will receive occasional rainfall through March 2025, but this may not meet the defined onset criteria. The peak of the rainy season in coastal regions is anticipated in April.
The Kenya Meteorological Department forecasts continued rainfall across several regions in the coming weeks. Isolated heavy downpours are expected, especially in the Highlands East and West of the Rift Valley, Nairobi, Lake Victoria Basin, the Southeastern lowlands, and Northeastern Kenya.
The department has urged residents in affected areas to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to avoid potential risks associated with heavy rainfall, including flooding and transport disruptions.
For further updates, the Kenya Meteorological Department encourages citizens to stay informed through official communication channels.
