Kenya Weather Service Alerts Farmers on June Rainfall Patterns

The Kenya Meteorological Service has issued an urgent advisory calling on farmers nationwide to implement moisture-conservation measures due to a concerning June weather forecast. According to the June outlook issued on June 5, farmers are advised to mulch their fields, use minimum tillage methods, build tied ridges, and implement rainwater harvesting systems to safeguard crops against decreasing soil moisture. Livestock keepers have been cautioned to preserve fodder, ensure sufficient feed and clean water supplies, and protect animals from cool temperatures and strong winds. Agricultural producers are advised to remain watchful for pests, fungal diseases, and animal health issues that flourish in areas with lingering rainfall and humidity. All farming communities should consistently check weather updates and seek guidance from agricultural extension officers prior to making significant planting or investment decisions this month. These warnings coincide with predictions that most Kenyan regions, including the Highlands East and West of the Rift Valley, the Rift Valley itself, the Southeastern Lowlands, and the Northeastern and Northwestern areas, will experience near-average to below-average rainfall in June. Affected areas include counties such as Kiambu, Murang’a, Nyeri, Kirinyaga, Embu, Tharaka Nithi, Meru, Laikipia, Nyandarua, Mandera, Wajir, Garissa, Uasin Gishu, Trans Nzoia, Elgeyo-Marakwet, Nandi, Kericho, Bomet, and rural farming areas in eastern and highland regions. Counties like Kakamega, Vihiga, Bungoma, West Pokot, Turkana, Samburu, and Marsabit cover western and northern Kenya, characterized by varied climatic conditions from humid highlands to arid and semi-arid terrains. Above-average temperatures are anticipated throughout the nation, intensifying moisture pressure on millions of small-scale farmers. Some areas may experience near-average to above-average rainfall that could support agricultural activities throughout the month. Maize crops in Western and Nyanza regions are currently thriving, supported by soil moisture remaining from the May long rains. Northeastern Kenya continues to be the most vulnerable area, with decreased rainfall causing significant moisture stress in certain regions and endangering pasture recovery. These warnings come as the World Meteorological Organization alerts that El Niño conditions are developing, which could lead to elevated global temperatures and erratic rainfall patterns in the coming months worldwide. The WMO indicates an 80 percent likelihood of El Niño forming between June and August 2026 across most global regions, including Eastern Africa, potentially causing severe consequences such as destructive floods and famine.