Kenya: Heavy rains and flooding kill at least 23 in Nairobi

As of March 9, 2026, severe flash floods caused by heavy overnight rainfall have resulted in at least 23 fatalities in Nairobi.

Recent reports suggest that the number of deaths in the city has increased to 27 or 28.

The National Police Service reported that many victims drowned after being carried away by rising rivers, while others were electrocuted by downed power lines.

The Kenya Meteorological Department announced that some regions experienced heavy rainfall, with totals reaching as high as 160 millimetres in one day.

This led to the Nairobi River overflowing and putting a strain on the city’s drainage system.

The flooding has resulted in significant damage in both informal settlements and affluent areas, such as Mukuru, Mathare, South C, and Parklands.

Key roads such as Uhuru Highway and Mombasa Road became unusable, resulting in many drivers being stuck and leading to the cancellation or rerouting of several flights at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport.

In the industrial area of Grogan, residents reported witnessing distressing situations where people were caught under vehicles that were carried off by rapidly rising floodwaters.

In response to the crisis, President William Ruto sent the Kenya Defence Forces to help with search and rescue efforts and instructed that relief food be released from national strategic reserves without delay.

In response to the crisis, President William Ruto deployed the Kenya Defence Forces to assist in search and rescue operations and ordered the immediate release of relief food from national strategic reserves.

While over 30 people have been successfully rescued, thousands remain displaced as emergency teams continue to navigate submerged streets to reach those still trapped in their homes.

Authorities remain on high alert as meteorologists warn of continued heavy rainfall through at least March 9, advising residents in flood-prone areas to move to higher ground.