The government has issued a fresh public health advisory as Kenya prepares for above-normal rainfall expected between October and December 2026, with the rains potentially continuing into early 2027.
The Ministry of Health has urged Kenyans to take early precautions to protect themselves from diseases and other risks that may increase during heavy rains and flooding. The Kenya Meteorological Department has forecast a 99 per cent probability of above-normal rainfall during the October-December period.
The ministry warned that flooding could contaminate water sources and create conditions that encourage the spread of diseases. These include cholera, typhoid and other diarrhoeal illnesses, as well as mosquito-borne diseases such as malaria and dengue fever.
County governments have been directed to strengthen emergency preparedness, protect health facilities located in flood-prone areas and ensure adequate supplies of essential medicines.
Authorities have also been encouraged to improve disease surveillance, prepare ambulances and referral services, monitor drinking water and strengthen mosquito-control measures.
The Ministry of Health has separately advised households to use safe drinking water, wash their hands regularly and maintain proper sanitation during the rainy season.
Kenyans have also been urged to protect food from contamination by keeping it covered, cooking it thoroughly and eating it while hot.
The government is asking counties and members of the public to prepare before the rains intensify rather than waiting for emergencies to occur.
With the rainy season expected to bring periods of heavy rainfall and possible flooding, authorities say early preparation will be important in reducing health risks, protecting property and maintaining essential services.