Experts are warning Kenyans to prepare for an unusually early and intense rainy season, with potential for significant flooding due to the combined effects of El Niño and a positive Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD). Pre-seasonal rains could begin as early as September.

• September forecasts indicate above-average rainfall, with some areas potentially receiving up to 20mm more than the long-term average.
• Weather expert Maithya wa Vilivū and the World Meteorological Organisation (WMO) are issuing these warnings.
• The anticipated rains are expected to intensify from early October and continue through to January 2027, increasing the risk of localized flooding.