At least 81 people have died across Kenya since the start of March following heavy rains that have triggered widespread flooding and landslides, authorities confirmed on Sunday.
According to national police spokesperson Muchiri Nyaga, the rising death toll reflects the devastating impact of torrential storms that have battered much of the country over the past weeks.
“The cumulative number of fatalities has unfortunately risen to 81,” Nyaga said in a statement, adding that the situation remains dire in several regions.
The heavy downpours have also displaced approximately 2,690 families, leaving thousands without shelter as homes, businesses, and infrastructure are swept away by fast-moving floodwaters.
Nairobi Hardest Hit
The capital, Nairobi, has borne the brunt of the disaster, recording 37 deaths, the highest in any region. Entire neighborhoods have been submerged, with roads turning into rivers and transport disrupted.
On Friday night, authorities issued urgent evacuation orders to residents living downstream of the Nairobi dam, citing fears that rising water levels could breach the embankment. The situation caused panic in several informal settlements, although the dam has so far held.
Nearby Kiambu also reported fatalities, with two people drowning overnight as floods swept through residential areas.
Landslides and Destruction in Western Kenya
In western Kenya, tragedy struck in the village of Kasaka, where landslides buried homes, killing at least two people. Rescue efforts have been hampered by ongoing rains and difficult terrain.
Across the country, the impact of the storms has been severe, with damaged roads, collapsed bridges, and flooded schools disrupting daily life.
More Rain Expected
The Kenya Meteorological Department has warned that rainfall is likely to continue until Tuesday, raising fears of further destruction and loss of life.
Authorities have urged citizens to exercise extreme caution, particularly those living in flood-prone areas and near rivers or unstable slopes.
Political Pressure Mounts
The crisis has intensified criticism of Johnson Sakaja, the Governor of Nairobi, who had pledged to improve drainage systems and road infrastructure when he assumed office in 2022.
Residents and critics argue that poor urban planning and inadequate drainage have worsened the flooding situation in the capital.
Climate Change Concerns
Scientists warn that such extreme weather events are becoming more frequent and intense due to Climate change.
Research shows that East Africa has experienced increasingly erratic weather patterns over the past two decades, including both severe droughts and intense rainfall.
As the rains persist, humanitarian concerns continue to grow, with calls for urgent government intervention to support affected families and prevent further loss of life.
