New Year’s Day Rainfall: A Blessing or a Curse for Kenyan Counties?

Nairobi is anticipated to be one of the areas that may witness rainfall on the inaugural day of the new year, as indicated by the Kenya Meteorological Department. The comprehensive weather forecast covering the period from Saturday, November 28, to Wednesday, January 1, 2025, suggests that the Highlands located east of the Rift Valley are likely to experience scattered showers in certain locations. This prediction highlights the potential for varied weather patterns as the new year approaches.

The forecast identifies several counties that could be affected by these rains, including Nyandarua, Laikipia, Nyeri, Kirinyaga, Murang’a, Kiambu, Meru, Embu, Tharaka Nithi, and Nairobi itself. Additionally, the Highlands situated west of the Rift Valley, encompassing counties such as Siaya, Kisumu, Homabay, Migori, Kisii, Nyamira, Trans Nzoia, Baringo, Uasin Gishu, Elgeyo-Marakwet, Nandi, Nakuru, Narok, Kericho, Bomet, Kakamega, Vihiga, Bungoma, Busia, and West Pokot, are also forecasted to receive rainfall on January 1.

This broad coverage of expected rainfall underscores the dynamic weather conditions that may unfold across various regions of the country.

In the southeastern lowlands, including Kitui, Makueni, Machakos, Kajiado, and Taita Taveta, as well as parts of Tana River County, light showers are anticipated in select areas next Wednesday. Despite the potential for rain, the Kenya Meteorological Department expects predominantly sunny intervals throughout most of the country for the remainder of 2024.

The southeastern lowland counties are predicted to enjoy the sunniest conditions, with temperatures ranging from highs of 31°C to lows of 14°C during the night. Meanwhile, the coastal region is not expected to see any rainfall in the coming days, but residents should be prepared for extremely high daytime temperatures, potentially reaching 32°C, with nighttime lows around 24°C.

In the coming five days, the regions of North Eastern, including Marsabit, Mandera, Wajir, Garissa, and Isiolo Counties, are expected to endure extreme weather conditions. Daytime temperatures are projected to reach a sweltering 37°C, while nighttime lows will drop to around 17°C, creating a significant temperature variation that may impact daily activities and health.