A short but powerful storm swept through Kisumu on the evening of 8 October, tearing off rooftops, toppling trees and billboards, and damaging several buildings.

The downpour lasted under 30 minutes but caused sections of walls to collapse, damaged parked vehicles and scattered debris along roads, while fallen branches brought down power lines.

Among the worst‑hit structures was the Jubilee Jumbo Hardware warehouse on Obote Road, where part of the building collapsed and reports emerged of looting amid the chaos.

County Commissioner Ramadhan Mwabudzo said the county administration and city planning department will inspect buildings and billboards to gauge their resilience to severe weather.

Authorities also confirmed ongoing efforts to clear blocked drainage systems and sewage channels to reduce flood risk.

Mwabudzo urged landlords and tenants to examine their premises, warning that weak or poorly maintained structures could endanger traders, customers and nearby residents.

The Kenya Meteorological Service Authority (KMSA) issued a warning after the incident, reminding Kenyans to take precautions as the October–December rainfall season continues.

KMSA advised the public to stay updated with official weather alerts, avoid outdoor activities during heavy storms, and not seek shelter under trees during thunderstorms.

Motorists and pedestrians were further cautioned to stay away from flooded roads, waterways and low‑lying areas to reduce injury risk.

Earlier this week, Kenya Met forecasted heavy rainfall across multiple counties, including Kisumu, Nairobi, Kiambu and others, with thunderstorms expected in parts of Western Kenya and the Rift Valley.