62 killed as severe flooding hits Kenya

At least 62 people have died following days of heavy rainfall and severe flooding across Kenya, authorities said on Saturday.

In a statement shared on X, the Kenya Ministry of Interior and National Administration said the fatalities included 46 men, eight women, and eight children.

According to the government, the floods have also left nine people missing and displaced more than 12,000 households across several parts of the country.

Officials said the flooding has affected at least 18 counties, damaging homes, farms, and public infrastructure while disrupting daily activities in many communities.

“The National Disaster Management Unit has confirmed the number of fatalities from floods has risen to 62, including 46 men, eight women, and eight children,” the ministry said.

Authorities noted that the Kenyan capital, Nairobi, recorded the highest number of deaths, with 33 fatalities.

Other regions also reported casualties as the rains continued to batter large parts of the East African nation.

Nairobi records the highest casualties

Government data showed that the Eastern region recorded 17 deaths, while the Rift Valley reported seven fatalities.

In addition, the Nyanza and Coast regions each recorded two deaths, while the Central region reported one fatality.

Authorities warned that several parts of the country continue to experience intense rainfall, raising concerns that the death toll could increase.

The ministry said the floods have caused widespread destruction, leaving roads and bridges submerged and impassable in some areas.

Schools have also been affected, with learning activities disrupted as floodwaters damaged buildings and blocked access routes.

Water supply lines and electricity infrastructure have also suffered damage, leading to power outages in several communities.

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Officials further said residential areas, farms, markets, and small businesses were heavily impacted as floodwaters swept through affected towns and villages.

Thousands displaced as rains continue

Government figures show that more than 12,000 homes have been displaced since the flooding began, forcing many families to seek shelter in safer areas.

Emergency response teams have been deployed in affected counties to assist displaced residents and assess the extent of the damage.

Authorities said a mapping exercise conducted under the Nairobi Rivers Regeneration Programme identified 37 locations along major river corridors in Nairobi that are particularly vulnerable to flooding.

The exercise highlighted several communities located along riverbanks and low-lying areas that face heightened risks during periods of heavy rainfall.

Officials have therefore urged residents living in flood-prone areas to remain vigilant and prioritise their safety.

The Kenya Meteorological Department has also warned that more rainfall is expected in the coming days as the country approaches the peak of its rainy season.

According to the agency, forecasts indicate the likelihood of large-scale rainfall, flash floods, and storm hazards in several regions.

Authorities have advised residents to avoid travelling through flooded roads, relocate from dangerous areas and follow safety advisories issued by emergency officials.

The government said it would continue monitoring the situation while coordinating disaster response efforts across affected counties.

As rescue and relief operations continue, officials warned that communities located near rivers and floodplains remain at high risk if the heavy rains persist.