The government has confirmed that at least 84 people have died following devastating flash floods in different parts of the country, with rescue efforts ongoing as authorities race to assist affected communities.
In a statement issued Tuesday, the Ministry of Interior and National Administration said multi-agency teams are working around the clock to rescue stranded residents, with three people still reported missing.
Nyando River Overflows in Kisumu
Authorities have raised the alarm after River Nyando broke its banks, causing widespread flooding across parts of Kisumu County.
Areas identified as high-risk include Kakola, Onjiko, Kochogo, East Kano, Okanja, Kamidumbi and Panadol, as well as the lower parts of Kakola Ombaka Sub-Location.
Floodwaters have also affected regions bordering streams such as Awach, Agala, Nyalbiego, Chamrogi and Nyaidho.
“The Kenya Coast Guard Service, Kenya Red Cross and the Kisumu County disaster management team are on the ground conducting rescue operations as National Government Administrative Officers continue to monitor the situation,” the Ministry said.
Rescue Efforts Intensify
So far, at least 265 households and six children have been rescued and moved to safer locations, including:
- The Ahero Assistant County Commissioner’s office
- Ahero Catholic Pastoral Centre
- Ombaka Dispensary
Emergency teams remain on high alert amid fears that continued rainfall upstream could worsen the situation.
Residents living near flood-prone areas—including Okanja, Kamidumbi, Panadol, Ahero Girls, and sections along the Kisumu–Nairobi road—have been urged to remain vigilant.
Tana River and Uasin Gishu Also Affected
In Tana River County, residents near River Tana have also been put on alert after the river burst its banks, flooding farms in Asako Village within Mbalambala Location.
Meanwhile, in Uasin Gishu County, a multi-agency team is assessing the impact of rising water levels along River Sosiani in Lower Elgon View, Racecourse Location.
Preliminary assessments indicate that several residential and hospitality facilities have experienced flooding, particularly in outdoor areas such as lawns.
Nationwide Alert
Authorities warn that continued heavy rainfall could lead to further flooding in multiple regions, urging residents in affected and downstream areas to take precautionary measures.
The government has reiterated its commitment to ongoing rescue and relief operations as efforts continue to mitigate the impact of the disaster.
