Compiled by Linda Makau
As the new week unfolds across the Greater Horn of Africa, the skies begin to paint a mixed picture one of heavy, life-giving rains in some regions and warm, dry days in others. It is a week shaped by contrasts, carrying both promise and caution for the millions who depend on the land, the seasons, and the sky above.
Communities across the region should prepare for a wetter week ahead, as new forecasts indicate enhanced rainfall over eastern Kenya and southern Somalia, alongside warmer-than-average temperatures across most areas.
According to the latest climate outlook, several parts of East Africa will experience moderate to light rainfall during the first full week of December.
Moderate Rainfall (50–200 mm)
Moderate rainfall is expected across multiple regions, including:
- Central to western Burundi
- Rwanda
- Tanzania’s central and western areas
- Central to eastern Kenya
- Southern Somalia
These areas may experience sustained showers that could influence local water resources, agriculture, and ongoing land preparation activities.
But farther away, in much of northern Tanzania, across western Uganda, and stretching into southern Ethiopia and South Sudan, the story will be different. Here, the clouds will pass lightly, offering only less than 50 mm of rain just enough to cool the air but not enough to break the dryness.
Rainfall Anomalies
More than usual rainfall expected over parts of eastern Kenya and southern Somalia. Less than usual rainfall expected over most parts of Tanzania, Rwanda, Uganda and southern regions of Kenya and Uganda.
And as always, a quiet reminder: every millimetre of rain that falls is one litre of water spread across each square metre of land.
Exceptional rainfall
Rainfall exceeding the 90th percentile expected over most parts of north-eastern Kenya.
Alongside the rains, the air itself is changing.
Across most of the GHA, the week will bring moderate to high temperatures, ranging from 20°C to 32°C. For many, this means warm afternoons and restless nights, the kind where the heat presses gently but steadily.
Temperature 03 – 10 December 2025
Moderate to high temperatures (20-32℃) expected over most parts of the GHA.
Mild temperature conditions (less than 20℃) expected over western regions of Burundi and Rwanda, south-western Uganda, central to western Kenya, central to northern Ethiopia and parts of northern Somalia.
Yet in the highlands from western Burundi and Rwanda to southwestern Uganda, through the cool hills of central and western Kenya, and into the elevated regions of Ethiopia and northern Somalia the temperatures will dip below 20°C. Here, mornings will feel crisp, and mist may linger in valleys like a soft blanket.
Temperature anomalies
Warmer than usual temperatures expected over most parts of the GHA. Cooler than usual temperatures expected over parts of north-eastern Kenya and coastal regions of Somalia and other isolated areas in Ethiopia and Tanzania.
Across most of the region, temperatures will sit warmer than usual, stirring concerns about heat stress, water scarcity, and discomfort for both people and animals.
Surprisingly, however, a few places will experience a cooler twist in the narrative. Parts of north-eastern Kenya, the Somali coast, and isolated pockets in Ethiopia and Tanzania will be cooler than expected for this time of year perhaps offering a brief, welcome relief.
Heat stress
Elevated heat stress levels expected in eastern Tanzania, eastern Kenya and southern Somalia, and most parts of South Sudan.
As the week moves forward, the skies across East Africa will shift from clear to cloudy, from hot to cool, from gentle showers to intense downpours. Every change tells a story one that affects farms, families, travel, health, and livelihoods.
For more details and real-time updates, explore the region’s forecasts on East Africa Hazards Watch and stay prepared for whatever the week’s weather brings.
