The Kenya Meteorological Department (Kenya Met) has forecast that most parts of Kenya will experience predominantly sunny and dry weather throughout August 2026. However, intermittent cool and cloudy conditions with occasional light rainfall are expected in parts of the Central Highlands.

Daytime temperatures will vary widely, ranging from 16°C to 37°C, while nighttime lows are expected between 5°C and 26°C depending on the region. The hottest weather is anticipated in northern and north-eastern counties, whereas the coldest nights will be felt in the Central Highlands, including Nairobi and Nyandarua.

Regional Rainfall Expectations

  • Near-average to below-average rainfall is predicted in western and some coastal counties such as Trans Nzoia, Bungoma, Kakamega, Kisumu, Mombasa, and Kilifi.
  • Below-average rainfall is expected in Turkana, Samburu, West Pokot, and Baringo.
  • Counties including Marsabit, Wajir, Mandera, Isiolo, Garissa, Taita Taveta, and Kajiado are forecast to remain generally sunny and dry.

Residents in Nairobi and neighbouring highland counties should prepare for typical cold August mornings, with cool, cloudy spells and occasional rainfall expected in counties such as Kiambu, Murang'a, Nyeri, Embu, Meru, and others.

Temperature Trends and Outlook

According to Kennedy Thiong'o, Deputy Director and Senior Meteorologist at Kenya Met, mean temperatures are likely to remain warmer than average nationwide despite the usual chilly August conditions in some areas. He also noted the possibility of isolated heavy rainfall in some counties, though overall precipitation will be near or below average.

July's weather review indicated mostly below-average rainfall across Kenya, except in select counties like Busia, Kisii, and Nairobi, which recorded near to above-average precipitation. Kisii Meteorological Station registered the highest rainfall total of 152 millimeters, while some northern stations recorded no rainfall.

Long-Term Weather Outlook

Kenya Met projects that dry conditions will persist through August and September, with scattered rains expected to develop in October. Below-average rainfall is anticipated in parts of the North Rift, western Kenya, and the Lake Victoria Basin, while some coastal and north-eastern counties may experience above-average rainfall, mainly in October.

Residents in Nairobi and the Central Highlands should expect occasional cool, cloudy weather with light showers into early September before the seasonal rains commence. Temperatures are forecast to stay above the long-term average throughout the August-September-October period.

Kenya Meteorological Department advises the public to monitor regular weather updates and advisories for detailed short-term forecasts.