Nairobi sits at high elevation near the equator and has a distinctive climate shaped by two rainy seasons: the “long rains” from March through May and the shorter “short rains” from October through December, together contributing to an annual total of around 900 mm (roughly 35 inches). Between these periods the city can be quite dry, meaning the transition into each rainy season often brings the most disruptive weather, as intense afternoon thunderstorms build over the surrounding highlands and can flood streets not built to handle sudden heavy runoff. Hail is also a notable feature of some of these storms given the city’s elevation. Because Nairobi’s rain is so concentrated into these defined windows rather than spread evenly through the year, radar tracking during the long and short rains gives residents a clearer picture of exactly when a storm cell is building nearby. The Kenya Meteorological Department operates the country’s weather radar network.
Learn more: How Does Rain Radar Work? · Open the full Rain Map
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it raining in Nairobi right now?
The live radar map above shows precipitation over Nairobi in real time. Blue shades indicate light rain, while yellow, orange, and red mark heavier downpours. If no colored echoes appear over Nairobi, no significant rain is currently being detected.
How often does the Nairobi rain radar update?
The radar refreshes continuously, typically every few minutes, so the map reflects current conditions rather than an hours-old forecast. Press play to animate the most recent frames.
Can I see if a storm is heading toward Nairobi?
Yes. Press play on the radar to animate the last few hours of rainfall and watch which way rain cells over Kenya are moving – the clearest way to judge whether a shower will reach Nairobi or pass by.
Is this Nairobi rain radar free to use?
Yes, completely free – no account, app download, or sign-up required. It works in any browser on desktop and mobile.