Kenya Weather Forecast: Met Warns of High Temperatures and Dry Conditions in February
The Kenya Meteorological Department has issued a stark reminder for residents to prepare for predominantly hot and dry weather throughout much of February 2026, with elevated daytime temperatures and only scattered showers in select regions.
In its latest weekly outlook covering Tuesday, February 3 to Saturday, February 7 (and aligning with the broader monthly trends), the Met Department warns that sunny skies and minimal rainfall will dominate, particularly in the Highlands East of the Rift Valley, Northwestern, Eastern, and Southeastern lowlands. This pattern reflects the ongoing dry spell, though occasional afternoon rains may provide brief relief in higher elevations and western areas.
Hot Temperatures Grip Key Counties
Several urban and coastal hubs—including Nairobi, Kiambu, Mombasa, Kilifi, and Isiolo—are forecast to see maximum temperatures exceeding 33°C during this period. In the arid and semi-arid zones, the heat is even more intense.
- Northeastern and northern counties such as Marsabit, Mandera, Wajir, Garissa, and Isiolo could record highs up to 38°C, with nighttime lows around 17°C.
- Turkana and Samburu are expected to stay mostly sunny (with some partly cloudy intervals), though temperature figures in reports show extremes—daytime peaks potentially in the high 30s°C and cooler nights.
Coastal counties like Mombasa, Kilifi, Lamu, Kwale, and parts of Tana River will enjoy consistent sunshine, with maximums around 34°C and minimums holding steady near 23°C—typical warm coastal conditions without significant rain.
Scattered Showers in Highlands and Western Regions
While much of the country bakes under clear skies, isolated to scattered rainfall (often with thunderstorms) is anticipated in the Highlands East and West of the Rift Valley, the Lake Victoria Basin, and parts of the Rift Valley as the week advances.
- Counties including Nairobi, Nyandarua, Laikipia, Nyeri, Kirinyaga, Murang’a, Kiambu, Meru, Embu, and Tharaka Nithi will remain mostly sunny, but expect afternoon showers from Thursday through Saturday, including some Friday night activity. Daytime highs here could still climb to 33°C, with unusually low nighttime minima dipping to around 5°C in cooler highland spots.
- In the western and Rift Valley zones—covering Siaya, Kisumu, Homa Bay, Migori, Kisii, Nyamira, Trans Nzoia, Baringo, Uasin Gishu, Elgeyo Marakwet, Nandi, Nakuru, Narok, Kericho, Bomet, Kakamega, Vihiga, Bungoma, Busia, and West Pokot—thundery showers are likely most days, except for sunnier intervals on Wednesday. Temperatures range from highs of 33°C to lows as cool as 8°C.
Dry and Sunny in the Southeast and Inland Lowlands
The southeastern lowlands and adjacent arid areas face prolonged dry weather. Counties such as Kitui, Makueni, Machakos, Kajiado, Taita Taveta, and inland Tana River are set for sunny dominance, with daytime temperatures potentially reaching 35°C and nights cooling to about 14°C.
Broader February Outlook and Advice
The Met’s monthly bulletin reinforces that February 2026 will largely continue this sunny and dry regime across most of Kenya, with warmer-than-average temperatures in many regions. While occasional rains may develop in central, western, and highland zones later in the month, the dominant story remains heat and limited precipitation.
Residents in hotter areas are urged to stay hydrated, limit outdoor exposure during peak sun hours, and monitor for heat-related health risks. Farmers and pastoralists in dry zones should continue water conservation measures. For the latest updates, check official Kenya Meteorological Department channels. Stay cool and safe!
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Kenya Weather Forecast: Met Warns of High Temperatures and Dry Conditions in February