Heavy Rain and Strong Winds Trigger National Alert for Construction and Transport Sectors

The Kenya Meteorological Department has released a formal advisory regarding extreme weather conditions expected to persist across much of the country. The alert, valid from April 24 through May 1, 2026, identifies a high probability of heavy rainfall exceeding 20mm within 24-hour cycles.

Contractors and site managers operating in the Highlands West and East of the Rift Valley, as well as the Lake Victoria Basin, should prepare for significant disruptions. These regions, along with the Southeastern Lowlands and parts of Northeastern Kenya, are expected to bear the brunt of the downpours.

According to the Department, the peak of this weather system is anticipated between Sunday, April 26, and Tuesday, April 28. In these windows, rainfall intensity may increase, posing a direct threat to earthworks and foundation stability on active sites.

Wind speeds are also a primary concern for the industry. Southerly to southeasterly winds exceeding 25 knots are forecast for the Coast, Southeastern Lowlands, and parts of Northern Kenya. For those managing high-rise developments or crane operations, these gusts present a heightened safety risk.

Large waves are likely to occur in coastal waters, with heights projected to exceed 2 meters. This development could affect marine-based infrastructure projects and logistics at the Port of Mombasa and surrounding coastal zones.

The advisory lists several counties of concern, including Nairobi, Kiambu, Machakos, and Kisumu. Coastal regions like Kwale, Kilifi, and Lamu are also under watch. The alert extends to the North, covering Turkana, Marsabit, and Wajir, where flash floods are a frequent hazard.

Residents and workers in these areas are urged to remain vigilant. The Department warned that flash floods can occur even in locations where it has not rained heavily, particularly downstream from catchment areas.

Visibility is expected to remain poor during heavy downpours, which may hinder transport and the movement of heavy machinery. The government has advised against driving or walking through moving water, noting the unpredictability of flood currents.

In landslide-prone areas, specifically those near the slopes of the Aberdare ranges and Mount Kenya, the risk of soil movement is high. Site supervisors in these hilly terrains are encouraged to monitor slope stability closely as the saturation levels in the soil increase.

Instructions have been issued to the Presidency, various Cabinet Secretaries, and the Red Cross to coordinate response efforts. The National Disaster Operations Centre and the Kenya Maritime Authority are also on high alert to manage potential emergencies arising from the storm.

Safety protocols on construction sites should be reviewed immediately. This includes securing loose materials that could be displaced by strong winds and ensuring drainage systems are clear to prevent on-site flooding.

The Kenya Meteorological Department indicated it will provide updates if weather patterns shift significantly. For now, the focus remains on mitigation and safety across the national infrastructure network.