Heavy rains that have battered Nairobi and several parts of the country in recent days are expected to begin easing from Monday, March 9, 2026, according to the Kenya Meteorological Department.
The anticipated relief comes after days of intense rainfall that triggered flash floods, destroyed property and disrupted daily life in the capital and surrounding regions.
Authorities say at least 25 people lost their lives on Friday, March 6, after the heavy downpours caused rivers and drainage systems to overflow in several parts of Nairobi.
Floodwaters swept through residential estates and major roads, leaving motorists stranded and families counting heavy losses as water levels rose rapidly following hours of relentless rainfall.
In many neighbourhoods, roads quickly turned into rivers as drainage systems failed to cope with the large volumes of water. Vehicles were submerged on some major roads, forcing drivers to abandon their cars while others waited for the water levels to subside.
Businesses were also affected as floodwaters entered shops and commercial premises, forcing many traders to close their doors temporarily. Public transport operations were disrupted in several parts of the city, making it difficult for residents to move around as the storm continued.
Many families reported losing household items, electronics and furniture after floodwaters entered their homes.
Authorities confirmed that the death toll rose after several people were caught in fast-moving floodwaters. Some victims were reportedly swept away while attempting to cross flooded roads or walk through waterlogged areas, while others died in flood-related incidents linked to the extreme weather.
Emergency response teams have been working around the clock to rescue stranded residents and assist communities affected by the flooding.
Teams from the Kenya Red Cross were deployed to several areas to carry out rescue operations and support families affected by the disaster. Volunteers helped evacuate residents trapped in flooded houses and assisted motorists whose vehicles had stalled in rising waters.
Rescue operations continued in some parts of the city as authorities worked to locate missing persons and assess the extent of the damage caused by the floods.
The heavy rains also affected neighbouring counties including Kiambu, Machakos and Kajiado, where flooding and poor drainage left several roads impassable and damaged homes and businesses.
In some areas, rivers burst their banks following prolonged rainfall, forcing residents living near riverbanks to move to safer areas.
Local authorities have urged residents living in flood-prone areas to remain cautious even as rainfall is expected to reduce. Officials warned that water levels in rivers and drainage channels may remain high for some time even after the rains ease.
Residents have also been advised to avoid crossing flooded roads and to stay away from fast-moving water, which can be dangerous even at shallow levels.
The latest tragedy has once again raised concerns about urban planning and drainage systems in Nairobi. Experts have long warned that the city’s drainage infrastructure is inadequate to handle heavy rainfall, particularly during intense storms.
Blocked drainage systems, poor waste management and rapid urban development have often been blamed for worsening floods during the rainy season.
As the country awaits the predicted reduction in rainfall from Monday, many affected families are now beginning the difficult task of recovering from the destruction caused by the floods. Authorities say assessments are ongoing to determine the full extent of the damage and to support communities affected by the disaster.
