The sun is biting harder than usual, and the Kenya Meteorological Department (KMD) has officially flagged the soaring temperatures. While stopping short of declaring a full-blown "heat wave," the weatherman has warned Kenyans to brace for an uncharacteristically scorching February.

In a detailed advisory issued this morning, the KMD clarified the specific thresholds that define dangerous heat in the Kenyan context. For Nairobi residents, the magic number is 32°C. If daily maximum temperatures hit or exceed this mark for three consecutive days, the capital will officially be in the grip of a heat wave. Currently, temperatures are hovering dangerously close to this limit, prompting health officials to issue urgent hydration warnings to the public.

Understanding the "Heat Wave" Criteria

The clarification comes amidst a swirl of social media rumors alleging a catastrophic heat wave. The KMD has dismissed these viral posts as "fake news" but acknowledged that the reality is only slightly less alarming. The department’s data reveals a worrying trend: January, February, and March are historically hot, but 2026 is pushing the mercury to new heights. The "warmer-than-average" conditions are being driven by persistent dry spells and clear skies.

For the coastal city of Mombasa, the threshold is even higher, set at 36°C, while the lakeside city of Kisumu must endure 37°C for three days to trigger the alert. These figures are not arbitrary; they are derived from long-term climate data and their correlation with hospital admissions. "We are seeing a direct link between these temperature spikes and heat-related illnesses," a KMD spokesperson noted. "This is not just about comfort; it is about public safety."

• Nairobi Threshold: 32°C for three consecutive days.
• Health Risks: Dehydration, heat exhaustion, and heatstroke are real dangers.
• Vulnerable Groups: Children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing conditions are most at risk.

Surviving the Scorch

As the sun beats down on the concrete jungle of Nairobi, the advice is simple but critical: hydrate, seek shade, and avoid direct sun exposure during peak hours. The government is urging employers to allow for cooler working conditions where possible and for schools to ensure students are protected during break times. The dry conditions also heighten the risk of wildfires in rural areas, adding another layer of complexity to the weather patterns.

While the "heat wave" label is technical, the sweat on the brow of every Kenyan is real. The coming weeks will test the resilience of the population as the country waits for the relief of the long rains. Until then, the water bottle is your best friend, and the shade is your sanctuary.