As heavy rains intensify across Kenya, large parts of the country are experiencing severe flooding, displacement, and infrastructure damage. The ongoing long rains season has pushed multiple counties into high alert, with authorities warning that the situation could worsen between April 22 and April 27, 2026.
The Kenya Meteorological Department has issued repeated advisories highlighting the risk of flash floods, strong winds, and rising water levels in rivers and coastal areas.
Coastal Region: The Hardest Hit
The coastal belt remains one of the most affected regions due to persistent heavy rainfall and rising sea levels.
Counties experiencing significant flooding include Mombasa, Kwale, Kilifi, Lamu, and Tana River County. In these areas, heavy rains exceeding 20mm to 50mm within 24 hours have led to waterlogging, flooded homes, and impassable roads.
Low-lying areas and settlements near the ocean and rivers are particularly vulnerable, while strong winds and waves exceeding 2 metres have disrupted fishing and marine activities.
North Eastern Kenya: Rising Water Levels
In the north eastern region, counties such as Garissa, Wajir, and Mandera are also facing growing flood risks.
Seasonal rivers have overflowed following continuous rainfall, cutting off roads and isolating communities. The flat terrain in this region makes it especially prone to widespread flooding once water levels rise.
Nairobi and Surrounding Areas
The capital, Nairobi, continues to experience flooding in several neighborhoods, particularly informal settlements and low-lying zones.
Areas such as Mathare, Kibra, Huruma, and Mukuru have reported flooded homes and displacement of residents.
Other affected zones include South C, Lavington, Globe Roundabout, and sections of Thika Road, where poor drainage has worsened the situation.
Neighboring counties like Kiambu County and Murang’a County are also experiencing steady rainfall and localized flooding.
Rift Valley and Other Regions
Flooding is no longer limited to coastal and urban areas. Parts of the Rift Valley have also been affected, with key transport routes disrupted.
The Mai Mahiu–Narok Road has been flagged as unsafe due to cracks and flooding, while sections of the Kitale–Morpus Highway have been cut off. These disruptions have slowed transport and affected the movement of goods and people.
Overall, more than 30 counties across the country have reported flood-related incidents, highlighting the nationwide scale of the crisis.
Human Impact and Displacement
The floods have had a devastating human impact. Thousands of families have been displaced, with homes, farms, and businesses destroyed.
Many residents have been forced to move to safer areas, including schools and temporary shelters set up by humanitarian agencies. Access to clean water and sanitation has also become a growing concern, increasing the risk of diseases such as cholera and malaria.
Emergency Response and Safety Measures
Organizations like the Kenya Red Cross Society are actively involved in rescue operations, evacuation efforts, and humanitarian support.
Residents in affected areas are strongly advised to remain vigilant. Authorities recommend avoiding flooded roads, staying away from riverbanks, and relocating from high-risk zones where necessary.
Emergency contacts include:
- Kenya Red Cross: 1199 (toll-free)
- National Police emergency lines
- St. John Ambulance services
What You Should Do
If you are in a flood-prone area, prioritize safety. Move to higher ground if water levels rise, avoid driving through flooded roads, and stay updated through official government channels.
With rainfall expected to continue over the coming days, preparedness and quick response will be critical in minimizing further loss of life and property.
