Nairobi County was once again paralyzed by heavy rainfall on Saturday evening, leaving roads submerged and homes at risk. The Kenya Red Cross reported that the Nairobi and Ngong rivers overflowed during the downpour, prompting emergency rescue operations.
Rescues and Areas Affected
Thirteen people have so far been rescued from the floods. Among them:
- Eleven individuals trapped in a matatu along Bunyala Road
- Two children trapped inside a flooded house in Kilimani
Flooding has affected numerous areas across the city, including Parklands, Nairobi Central Business District (CBD), University of Nairobi hostels, Ngong Road near Ngando, Lower Kabete, Kibera, South B, Kawangware, Lang’ata, Lavington, Grogon, Eastleigh, and Riruta.
The downpour has also caused major traffic disruptions along key routes, including the Nairobi Expressway near Museum Hill, Limuru Road, Bunyala Road, and Lusaka Road.
Emergency teams have urged motorists and residents to avoid flooded areas and remain alert as rescue operations continue.
Recurring Tragedy
This incident comes just a week after a heavy rainfall event claimed 62 lives across Kenya. According to the Ministry of Interior and Coordination of National Government, Nairobi accounted for 33 fatalities, with 17 in the Eastern Region and 7 in the Rift Valley.
The heavy rains also affected the operations of the Nairobi Water and Sewerage Company, which had been repairing a damaged transmission pipeline along Outering Road. The repair exercise had to be halted at 10:00 PM Saturday due to flooding, with plans to resume once weather conditions improve.
Residents are advised to access water through Nairobi Water’s bowser delivery service by dialing *260# and selecting Option 5.
