The Kenya Meteorological Department has issued a fresh advisory forecasting moderate rainfall across 20 counties in the Western and Rift Valley regions, breaking the dry spell that has gripped much of the country.

In its latest five-day forecast covering January 30 to February 3, the weatherman warns that while the majority of the country will remain sunny and dry, specific pockets in the Highlands West of the Rift Valley and the Lake Victoria Basin should brace for afternoon showers and potential thunderstorms. This localized wet weather comes as a reprieve for farmers preparing for the planting season but poses potential disruption risks for weekend travelers.

The Wet List

The department has specifically flagged the following counties for rainfall:

• Lake Victoria Basin: Siaya, Kisumu, Homabay, Migori, Busia.
• Western Highlands: Kisii, Nyamira, Bungoma, Kakamega, Vihiga.
• Rift Valley: Trans Nzoia, Baringo, Uasin Gishu, Elgeyo Marakwet, Nandi, Nakuru, Narok, Kericho, Bomet, and West Pokot.

"Most parts of the country are expected to be sunny and dry," the notice read in part. "However, light to moderate rainfall is likely to occur in a few areas in the Highlands West of the Rift Valley and the Lake Victoria Basin."

Scorching Heat Elsewhere

While the west gets wet, the rest of the country is set to bake. The forecast indicates that maximum temperatures will hover around a sweltering 32°C in many regions, with the Northwestern counties of Turkana and Samburu expected to hit dangerous highs of 38°C. Residents in these arid areas have been advised to stay hydrated and avoid direct sun exposure during midday hours.

Nairobi and the Central Highlands are predicted to remain largely dry, with cool mornings dipping to 8°C and warm, sunny afternoons maxing out at 31°C. This weather pattern aligns with the traditional dry season expected in January, though the isolated rains in the west suggest a shifting climatic baseline that farmers are increasingly having to navigate.

As the weekend approaches, those traveling to Western Kenya are urged to carry umbrellas and drive cautiously, particularly on slippery rural roads in Kisii and Kericho where the showers are expected to be most intense.