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Downpour causes traffic chaos, business closures, and weather warnings as Kenya faces extreme rainfall and temperature swings during long rains season
A heavy downpour on Sunday evening caused major flooding in Nairobi, leaving roads submerged and making life difficult for both pedestrians and motorists. The sudden rains, which came with strong winds, turned the city’s streets into rivers. Many people had to wade through fast-moving water to get home, while drivers struggled to navigate the slippery and flooded roads.
In some parts of the city, like Mama Ngina Street, the water was so high that vehicles stalled in the middle of the road. Drivers had no choice but to wait inside their cars as they remained stuck in traffic or trapped by the rising waters. This situation was not limited to just one street—similar scenes played out across different areas in Nairobi.
Due to the bad weather, many businesses in the city were forced to close earlier than usual. Shoppers had to cut short their evening plans as shopkeepers closed their doors, trying to avoid damage from the floods or simply get home safely before the situation got worse.
The Kenya Meteorological Department had already warned about this kind of weather. On May 5, they issued an advisory telling Kenyans to be ready for heavy rains and extreme temperatures in various parts of the country. Their forecast, which covers May 6 to 12, 2025, pointed out that several areas would likely experience scattered but intense rainfall.
Regions expected to be affected include the Central Highlands, the Lake Victoria Basin, parts of the Rift Valley, Coast, Western Kenya, and North-Western parts of the country. The department noted that although the rains may not fall everywhere at once, some areas could receive very heavy downpours.
“We advise Kenyans to plan their movements carefully and stay safe,” the department said in their weekly update.
Along with the heavy rain, parts of Kenya are also facing extreme temperatures. In areas like the Coast, North-Eastern, and North-Western Kenya, daytime temperatures are expected to soar above 30°C. Meanwhile, in other regions such as the Central Highlands, the Central Rift Valley, and places near Mt. Kilimanjaro, nighttime temperatures may drop below 10°C.
This weather pattern is part of the ongoing long rains season, which takes place between March and May each year. However, this year’s season has been unusual, with unpredictable rainfall and uneven distribution of rain across different counties.
Even though not every area is affected in the same way, the Kenya Meteorological Department is urging the public to stay prepared. They emphasize the need for people to follow daily weather forecasts and remain alert, especially those living in areas prone to flash floods or where farming and livestock are affected by weather changes.
“We are still in the long rains season, and the weather can change quickly. Communities need to stay informed and take precautions,” the department said.
As climate change continues to impact Kenya, the need for weather awareness and preparedness has become more important than ever. Whether it’s a farmer trying to protect crops, a driver navigating flooded roads, or a family planning their evening, being aware of the weather forecast can help avoid danger.
Residents are being encouraged to follow updates from local authorities and the meteorological department. Staying safe during this season means being informed and making smart decisions based on the changing weather conditions.