Flooding has intensified across several parts of Kenya following days of heavy rainfall, with major rivers bursting their banks and displacing hundreds of families, as emergency response efforts scale up nationwide.
According to the Ministry of Interior and National Coordination, River Nyando has overflowed, triggering widespread flooding across parts of Kisumu County and worsening an already critical situation.
“River Nyando has burst its banks, causing widespread flooding across parts of Kisumu County,” the Ministry said.
Western Kenya hardest hit as evacuations increase
The worst-hit areas remain in western Kenya, where rising water levels have forced evacuations and disrupted livelihoods.
Authorities confirmed that at least 265 households have been affected, while six children separated from their parents were rescued and are currently under care.
“So far, 265 households and six children without their parents were rescued and currently sheltered at the compounds of the office of the Ahero Assistant County Commissioner, Ahero Catholic Pastoral Centre and Ombaka dispensary,” the Ministry stated.
Emergency teams, including the Kenya Red Cross, have been on the ground conducting rescue operations, evacuating families and livestock from flood-prone areas.
The evacuation of over 900 students from Ahero Girls National School is also underway as authorities move to ensure the safety of learners.
Flooding spreads to other regions
The impact of the heavy rains is being felt beyond western Kenya, with other regions also reporting flooding incidents.
In Tana River County, River Tana has overflowed, submerging farms in Mbalambala and raising concerns over food security and livelihoods.
“Elsewhere, River Tana has also overflowed in Tana River County, flooding farms in Mbalambala,” the Ministry added.
In Uasin Gishu County, flooding along River Sosiani has affected residential areas and hospitality facilities, disrupting normal operations.
The Rift Valley, Coast, and parts of Central Kenya have also reported cases of waterlogging, damaged infrastructure, and transport disruptions.
Schools closed as crisis deepens
The floods have led to the closure of schools in several affected regions, with access roads cut off and learning environments deemed unsafe.
In Nyanza and parts of Rift Valley, some schools have either suspended learning or are being used as temporary shelters for displaced families.
Education officials say the closures are precautionary as the government prioritizes the safety of students amid ongoing rains.
Government and humanitarian response
The government, working with humanitarian agencies, has intensified response measures, including evacuations, provision of shelter, and distribution of relief supplies.
Authorities have urged residents living in low-lying and flood-prone areas to move to safer ground as river levels continue to rise.
Monitoring of major rivers has also been heightened, with emergency teams placed on standby for further interventions.
With rainfall expected to persist, officials warn that the situation remains fluid, and more areas could be affected in the coming days.
