Kenyans must brace themselves for a scorching week ahead as the weatherman predicts high temperatures and dry conditions to persist across most of the country.

The relentless heatwave, broken only by isolated showers in the west, poses risks to health and agriculture, forcing citizens to adapt to extreme conditions before the long rains arrive. From the humid coast to the arid north, the sun will be unforgiving, with temperatures set to soar above 30°C in many regions.

Regional Breakdown

The Kenya Meteorological Department's forecast for February 10 to 16, 2026, paints a picture of a country baking under the sun.

• North-Eastern Kenya (Mandera, Wajir, Garissa): Expect furnace-like conditions. Highs could hit 38°C. The region will remain dry and hot, exacerbating water scarcity issues.
• The Coast (Mombasa, Kilifi, Lamu): Hot and humid. The air will feel heavy, with high temperatures combined with ocean moisture creating uncomfortable conditions.
• Nairobi and Central Highlands: Sunny intervals during the day. While nights might be cool, the days will be dry and dusty.
• Western Kenya & Lake Basin: The only respite. Counties like Kisumu, Kakamega, and Kericho may see isolated afternoon showers and thunderstorms, but even these will be brief relief from the heat.

Health and Safety Alert

The Met Department has issued a health advisory. The risk of heat stress, dehydration, and heatstroke is real. Kenyans are urged to:

• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, even when not thirsty.
• Avoid direct sunlight during peak hours (11 AM to 3 PM).
• Wear light, loose-fitting clothing.

The Climate Context

This dry spell is consistent with the delayed onset of the long rains and the lingering effects of global climate patterns like La Niña. For farmers, the wait for rain continues, with the dusty fields serving as a stark reminder of our vulnerability to climate change. As we sweat through this week, the eyes of the nation remain cast upwards, waiting for the clouds to gather.