While Nairobians bask in sunny intervals, residents of Western Kenya should keep their umbrellas close. The Kenya Meteorological Department has issued a specific advisory for the weekend, pinpointing four key regions that will experience significant rainfall as a localized weather system sweeps across the Rift.

The forecast for this weekend (February 7-8) paints a picture of a divided nation. A moisture-laden air mass from the Congo Basin is interacting with local topography to trigger showers and thunderstorms in specific pockets of the country. For farmers in the breadbasket regions, this is a welcome boon; for weekend travelers, it is a warning to drive with caution. The Met Department’s precision in listing these areas is a call to action for preparedness, not just a weather report.

The "So What?" is clear: localized flooding remains a risk in poorly drained areas, and visibility on the treacherous escapement roads could be compromised. The department has specifically warned of "afternoon showers and thunderstorms," a weather pattern that can turn a dry road into a slip-and-slide in minutes. Meanwhile, the rest of the country, particularly the arid North and the Coast, will continue to bake under high temperatures.

The Four Wet Zones

The weatherman has identified the following regions as the focal points for the weekend rains:

• Highlands West of the Rift Valley: Counties including Kakamega, Vihiga, Bungoma, and Kisii should expect sunny mornings followed by heavy afternoon downpours.
• The Lake Victoria Basin: Kisumu, Siaya, Homa Bay, and Migori are on alert for thunderstorms that could stir up rough waters on the lake.
• The Central Rift Valley: Nakuru and Narok will see scattered showers, potentially affecting traffic on the busy Nairobi-Nakuru highway.
• Highlands East of the Rift Valley: This includes Nairobi, Nyeri, and Kiambu. While largely sunny, these areas will not escape completely, with "afternoon showers in elevated areas" predicted.

Temperature Extremes

Beyond the rain, the country is experiencing a sharp contrast in temperatures. The Met Department warned of "very cold nights" in the Central Highlands, with temperatures dropping below 10°C. Conversely, the Coastal strip and North-Eastern counties like Mandera and Garissa are forecast to hit searing highs of over 30°C.

This weekend’s weather is a classic Kenyan mix—a reminder of our complex geography. Whether you are freezing in Limuru or sweating in Mombasa, or dodging puddles in Kakamega, the advice remains the same: respect the forecast and plan accordingly. The rains are here, but only for the chosen few.