Kenyans have been advised to brace for above-average temperatures and mostly dry conditions throughout February, according to the Kenya Meteorological Department (Kenya Met).
Despite the generally hot and dry outlook, Kenya Met says occasional rainfall may be experienced in parts of the country, including Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, Kericho, Nakuru, and Kiambu. The showers, however, are expected to be brief and are unlikely to signal the start of the long rains.
The department has urged members of the public to stay hydrated and take necessary precautions against heat stress and heat-related illnesses, especially vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, and outdoor workers.
According to Kenya Met, the main rainfall season is expected to begin in March, with April likely to experience peak rainfall and wider coverage across many regions.
Meteorologists attribute the current dry spell to several global climate factors. One of them is La Niña, characterized by cooler-than-normal sea surface temperatures in the Pacific Ocean, which often leads to drier conditions in parts of East Africa.
Additionally, a negative Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD) — where the eastern Indian Ocean is warmer than the western part — is expected to further suppress rainfall during this period.
In response to the dry conditions, authorities such as the Kenya Wildlife Service have been encouraged to establish additional watering points in conservancies to prevent wildlife-related fires and reduce human-wildlife conflicts caused by animals searching for water.
The national government and humanitarian agencies have also been urged to act early to prevent a possible rise in food insecurity, particularly in arid and semi-arid areas.
Experts have recommended close monitoring of river catchment areas feeding hydroelectric dams to ensure stable power generation despite reduced rainfall.
Meanwhile, farmers and pastoralists have been cautioned to prepare for potential drought impacts, as prolonged heat and limited water availability may affect crops and livestock.
Kenya Met has advised communities to remain alert to weather updates and adopt precautionary measures to protect both human and animal life during the unusually warm month.
Overall, February is expected to remain hot, dry, and challenging, highlighting the need for early planning and preparedness as the country awaits the onset of the rains in March.
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