Nairobi and several other counties have been hit hard by flash floods over the past weekend, leaving streets submerged, homes destroyed, and mass evacuations in low-lying areas. Officials say the city recorded some of the highest rainfall totals in recent months.
Nairobi West Commissioner Rose Chege confirmed that 27 people have died so far, including 22 men, three women, and two children. Families are urged to visit Nairobi City Mortuary to help identify missing relatives as postmortems continue.
The Kenya Meteorological Department had warned of heavy rainfall between March 4 and March 8. Moi Air Base recorded 67.3 mm on Friday and 145 mm on Saturday, while Wilson Airport saw 88 mm and 160 mm, respectively.
Similar high totals were recorded in Dagoretti and Kabete. The intense rains overwhelmed drainage systems, leaving many homes swept away and roads impassable.
Rescue teams and the Kenya Red Cross have been working tirelessly. The Red Cross reports 42 deaths nationwide and over 50,000 displaced, with numbers expected to rise as search operations continue.
Other affected regions include:
Eastern Region: 10 fatalities; families advised to check local mortuaries in Mutomo, Kilungu, Kibwezi, and Makueni.
Kisumu: Rescue operations ongoing along River Nyando.
Kisii County: Bridge collapse affecting Kitutu Central and Marani roads.
Garissa: Severe flooding and impassable roads.
Elgeyo Marakwet: Bridge destruction and landslides on key routes.
Nyandarua County: Residents urged to avoid rivers and remain alert.
Authorities continue to advise residents to relocate to safe areas until floodwaters recede. Relief agencies and the government remain on high alert, coordinating search, rescue, and recovery operations.
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