Kenya’s rainy season can be both a blessing and a challenge. Sure, the lush green landscapes are beautiful, but navigating those rain-soaked roads? That’s a different story. If you’re a car owner in Kenya, you know how slippery things can get when the skies open up. So, let’s talk about how to stay safe and in control while driving on wet roads. Whether you’re commuting to work, hitting the road for a weekend trip, or making a quick grocery run, these tips are for you.

Before Getting on the Road

Preparation is key when driving in Kenya’s unpredictable rainy weather. Taking a few extra steps before setting out can make the difference between a safe journey and a hazardous one. Whether you’re navigating urban streets or rural roads, it’s crucial to assess the situation carefully. Here’s what to consider before you even start the engine:

Wait It Out if Possible

Kenyan roads, especially in flood-prone areas like Narok and the Eastern parts of Nairobi, can become treacherous during rain. Waiyaki Way and Mombasa Road, for instance, frequently flood. If travel isn’t urgent, waiting for the weather to clear might be your safest option. Authorities, including KeNHA, NTSA, and Red Cross, often issue warnings—heeding them could save you from unnecessary risks.

Choose Your Route Wisely

If you must travel, plan your route based on experience and weather alerts. Roads that tend to flood, such as sections of Thika Road or Uhuru Highway, should be avoided. Consider alternate routes when necessary. A good rule of thumb: If water covers road markings, it’s likely too deep to safely pass.

Check Your Vehicle’s Condition

A well-maintained vehicle is essential in bad weather. Ensure your brakes, wipers, and lights are all functioning properly. Roads in places like Limuru, which frequently experience fog, require properly working headlights and an AC that helps prevent windshield fogging to maintain visibility.

Your tires are the only thing between your car and the road, and when it’s raining, you need them to be in top shape. Bald tires on wet roads are a disaster waiting to happen. Without proper tread depth, your tires won’t grip the road properly, and that’s how you end up skidding or sliding. Ever felt your car’s tires lose contact with the road, even just for a second? Yeah, that’s not fun.

When was the last time you checked your tire tread? If it’s been a while, now is the time. The rainy season in Kenya can last a while, and you don’t want to be caught off guard. A quick check at your local mechanic could save your life. Plus, if your tires are in good shape, they’ll also improve fuel efficiency and give you a smoother ride. 

This preparation can make all the difference when faced with Kenya’s rainy and wet roads.

While on the Road

Ever been caught off guard by a sudden downpour, bare-knuckling the wheel, praying you don’t skid? You’re not alone, but here’s how to handle it like a pro.

Slow and Steady Wins the Race

You’ve probably heard it a thousand times, but it’s worth repeating: slow down. When the roads are wet, your tires lose grip, and suddenly, you’re driving on a slick, slippery surface. Speeding in such conditions is a recipe for disaster. Think of it like trying to run on a polished floor in socks—you might stay upright for a second, but sooner or later, you’re going to lose control.

In the rain, your stopping distance doubles. So, if you usually feel comfortable going 80 km/h, dial it back to around 60 km/h. It’s not about being late; it’s about getting there in one piece. Safety always trumps speed when it comes to wet roads. Plus, rushing only increases the chances of hydroplaning, where your car glides over the water like a boat—a terrifying experience if you’re not prepared.

Watch Out for Water Puddles (and Their Hidden Surprises!)

Puddles can be deceptive. What looks like a harmless pool of water could be hiding a nasty pothole, sharp debris, or even the makings of a new sinkhole. Driving through these puddles at full speed could cause more than just a splash—it could damage your suspension, burst a tire, or worse, send you skidding out of control.

Remember, it’s not just the depth of the water you have to worry about. If you hit a puddle at speed, your tires can lose contact with the road, causing you to hydroplane. The best approach? If possible, avoid puddles altogether. If you must go through them, slow down and drive through cautiously. Always keep a firm grip on the wheel, and don’t make any sudden moves.

Keep a Safe Distance: Give Room to Breathe

When it’s raining, it’s essential to increase the distance between your car and the one in front of you. The wet roads reduce your car’s braking efficiency, meaning it will take longer for you to come to a complete stop. The last thing you want is to be tailgating someone when they suddenly slam on the brakes.

Think of it like this: on a dry day, you’re fine with a two-second gap. In the rain, you need at least double that—around four seconds. Ever seen someone stop suddenly in front of you on a wet road? It’s like watching a horror movie in slow motion. So, give yourself plenty of room, and avoid sudden braking. Your future self will thank you for it.

Defog Your Windscreen: Visibility is Key

Driving through a downpour is hard enough without your windscreen fogging up. Reduced visibility is one of the most dangerous parts of driving in the rain. If your windscreen fogs up, it’s like trying to drive through a thick cloud—impossible to see anything clearly, and before you know it, you’re in a precarious situation.

Thankfully, most cars come with a defrost setting that can help with this. If your car doesn’t, a quick trick is to turn on your air conditioning or crack your window slightly to let in some fresh air. It’s an easy fix, but it makes all the difference in keeping your view of the road clear. After all, no one wants to drive with a foggy windscreen—it’s like trying to navigate through the rain with glasses on inside a sauna.

Avoid Sudden Movements: Smoothness is Your Friend

When driving on wet roads, your goal is to be as smooth as possible. Jerky movements—whether it’s sudden braking, sharp turns, or aggressive acceleration—can cause your tires to lose grip, sending you into a skid. Instead, think of yourself as gliding over the road. Brake gently, turn gradually, and accelerate smoothly. If you need to change lanes, do so carefully and avoid cutting across large puddles or slick patches.

Smooth driving not only keeps you safer, but it also makes for a more comfortable ride for you and your passengers. And hey, it might even save you a bit of fuel!

Lights On, Please!

One of the easiest but most overlooked safety tips is to turn your headlights on when it’s raining, even during the day. It’s not just about seeing better yourself; it’s about making sure other drivers can see you. In heavy rain, visibility can drop dramatically, and if your car blends into the grey, misty background, another driver might not notice you until it’s too late.

But remember: don’t use your high beams. They can reflect off the rain and create glare, making it harder for everyone to see. Low beams are the way to go.

7. Check Your Brakes: Don’t Wait for an Emergency

Your brakes are crucial, especially when the roads are wet. If your brakes aren’t functioning at their best, it could spell trouble when you need to stop in a hurry. Get into the habit of checking your brakes regularly, particularly before the rainy season starts. Mechanics can easily check for wear and tear, and if necessary, replace your brake pads to ensure they’re in perfect working order.

At Varsani Brake Linings, we understand how essential it is to have brakes you can rely on. 

Getting Cars Ready for the Rainy Season

If you are a mechanic, you get to play the critical role of ensuring cars are running optimally all the time. Here are some key parts you should advise your clients to focus on before the rain starts pouring:

  1. Brakes: Advise your clients to get their brake pads checked and replaced if necessary. Wet conditions make braking less effective, and worn-out brakes can lead to accidents.
  2. Tires: Ensure that tire tread depth meets safety standards. Shallow treads lose grip on wet roads, increasing the chances of hydroplaning. Also, check for tire pressure—it fluctuates with weather changes, affecting performance.
  3. Wipers: Poor visibility is one of the biggest dangers in rainy weather. Make sure your clients’ windshield wipers are in good condition and replace any that are worn out. Suggest using water-repellent solutions for added visibility.
  4. Lights: Advise clients to check that their headlights, brake lights, and indicators are functioning properly. In heavy rain, other drivers need to be able to see your car.
  5. Battery: Cold, wet weather can be tough on car batteries. If the battery is showing signs of weakness, recommend a replacement to avoid breakdowns during the rainy season.
  6. Defrosters and Heaters: Windscreen fogging can reduce visibility. Make sure your clients’ defrosters and heaters are functioning correctly to prevent fog buildup during rain.
  7. Suspension and Shock Absorbers: Rainy roads can be full of hidden potholes and bumps. Properly functioning suspension helps absorb the shock, preventing damage to the car and providing a smoother, safer ride.

By advising your clients on these key areas, you’ll help them avoid breakdowns and accidents during the rainy season.

Stay Safe, Stay Prepared

Driving in Kenya’s rainy weather requires extra care and attention, but with these tips, you’ll be well-equipped to handle wet roads. For mechanics, prepping your clients’ cars before the rain kicks in ensures that they’re road-ready, safe, and reliable. Whether you’re a car owner or a mechanic, keeping your vehicle in top condition is the key to navigating Kenya’s rainy season safely.

Don’t wait for the rain to start falling! When it comes to reliable brake products, motorists across Kenya and the East African region trust Varsani Brake Linings. They distribute top-quality brake linings and accessories across the country, ensuring that your vehicle is always safe on the road, no matter the weather. Visit their website or find their products at your nearest auto parts store to stay safe during the rainy season.

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