Kenya Meteorological Dept Warns of Cold Nights and Light Rains Across 30 Counties

When Kenya Meteorological Department released its latest outlook, Dr. Stephen Murithi, Chief Meteorologist warned that cold nights and light showers will linger through July and into August 2025, touching more than thirty counties from the highlands to the lake basin.

Seasonal Context and Temperature Trends

The department’s July analysis shows the country sitting at the apex of its cold season. In the Central highlands — especially around Nairobi — daytime highs have crept above the long‑term July mean, while night‑time lows dip lower, creating a classic “clear‑day, chilly‑night” pattern.

Two stations stood out. On July 14, Mandera Meteorological Station logged a sizzling 36.6 °C, the highest daily maximum for the week. Conversely, Laikipia’s hills recorded a frigid 9.3 °C low on July 20, the coldest nightly dip recorded across the network.

When you average the seven‑day span, Lodwar’s gauges showed a high of 34.9 °C, while Laikipia’s night‑time average lingered just above 10 °C. The contrast highlights Kenya’s topographic drama: the arid north experiences daytime heat, the central plateau enjoys crisp evenings.

Seven‑Day Forecast Highlights (July 22‑28)

During the official seven‑day forecast, the department painted a patchwork of sunny mornings turning cloudy by mid‑day. Western counties — Kakamega, Bungoma, Siaya, Busia, and the neighboring Nandi, Kericho and Kisumu — will see intermittent light rains, often in the form of drizzle that eases into brief thunderstorms later in the afternoon.

• Morning sunshine across the Highlands West of the Rift Valley.
• Afternoon showers likely in isolated spots, occasionally spreading to larger swaths.
• Night‑time rain expected in a handful of locations, primarily in the lake basin.
• Hail remains a remote but possible threat in higher altitude zones.

For the Central Highlands and the South Rift Valley — think Nakuru, Baringo and the Nairobi metro — expect cool, cloudy spells peppered with gentle rain. Farmers there may welcome the moisture, especially after a dry spell earlier in the year.

Regional Outlook and Agricultural Implications

The forecast carries mixed messages for Kenya’s agrarian economy. In the Lake Victoria Basin, the light but steady drizzle could boost soil moisture just as maize is entering its tasseling stage. Meanwhile, the cooler nights in the highlands may reduce evapotranspiration, preserving water for early vegetable crops.

But there’s a flip side. Hailstorms, while not forecasted as a dominant feature, have historically shredded wheat and barley in the high elevations of Elgeyo‑Marakwet and West Pokot. The department urges growers to keep protective netting handy.

Expert Views and Concerns

"We’re seeing a classic East African cold season amplified by a dip in the Indian Ocean,” says Prof. Amina Njeri, a climate scientist at the University of Nairobi. "The temperature swing between day and night is beneficial for some crops, but hail risk spikes in the highlands, so vigilance is key."

Local traders in Kisumu have already adjusted market prices, noting that the anticipated light rains could lift fish pond water levels, while cooler nights may slow up the fermentation process of traditional brews.

What’s Ahead: August Outlook

On July 30, the department released its August 2025 Climate Outlook. The picture remains similar: occasional cold snaps, lingering cloud cover, and spotty rain across the eastern and western highlands. Forecast models suggest a slight warming trend in the lowlands of Lamu and Msabaha, but night‑time lows will stay lower than the July average.

In practical terms, commuters in Nairobi should keep an extra jacket handy for evening travel, while tourists heading to the Maasai Mara can expect clear mornings perfect for game viewing, followed by possible evening showers.