The government has stepped up preparedness measures ahead of the expected onset of the October-November-December (OND) 2026 rainfall season, urging Kenyans to take early precautions against possible weather-related disasters.
Government Spokesperson Charles Owino Wahong’o said authorities were closely monitoring the evolving weather situation and had strengthened preparedness and response mechanisms in anticipation of heavy rains in some parts of the country.
The Kenya Meteorological Department will continue issuing weather forecasts and advisories to guide preparedness and response efforts at both national and county levels.
The government warned that heavy rainfall could trigger flooding, landslides and disruption of transport and essential services, while also causing damage to infrastructure and displacement of vulnerable households.
Relevant ministries, departments and agencies, working alongside county governments as well as humanitarian and development partners, have strengthened multi-agency preparedness and response mechanisms.
Authorities are undertaking risk assessments, identifying vulnerable and flood-prone areas, preparing emergency response measures and enhancing early-warning communication to communities.
The government has particularly urged residents living in flood-prone areas, along rivers and in other vulnerable locations to take precautionary measures before the rains intensify.
Residents occupying riparian reserves have been advised to voluntarily relocate to safer areas to reduce the risk of flooding.
The public has also been cautioned against crossing flooded rivers, roads and bridges or attempting to walk or drive through moving floodwater.
Kenyans have been urged to keep away from riverbanks, drainage channels and other areas prone to flooding, while ensuring children stay away from flooded areas and water bodies.
Households have further been advised to secure important documents, property and livestock where possible and comply with evacuation orders issued by authorised government agencies.
The government also called on Kenyans to remain alert to official weather forecasts and emergency advisories and report emergencies promptly to the relevant authorities.
Wahong’o said preparedness should be treated as a shared responsibility, with communities encouraged to work closely with local administrators, county governments and disaster-response teams.
He urged communities to identify vulnerable persons early and support evacuation efforts where necessary, while warning the public against spreading unverified information.
The government said it would continue monitoring the OND rainfall situation and provide regular updates as weather conditions evolve.
“Early warning must translate into early action,” Wahong’o said.
