Severe overnight flooding across Nairobi has left at least 23 people dead and displaced residents in several informal settlements, prompting the National Police Service to launch emergency rescue operations across the capital.
At least 23 people have died following severe flooding triggered by heavy overnight rainfall across Nairobi, according to the National Police Service (NPS), as emergency teams continue search and rescue operations in the worst-hit areas.
Police said the torrential downpour caused widespread flooding across several neighbourhoods in the city, destroying homes, blocking major roads and displacing residents.
Authorities confirmed that 29 people had been rescued during overnight operations carried out by security agencies and emergency responders.
“The torrential rains have led to significant flooding, unfortunately resulting in 23 fatalities so far, the destruction of property, road closures and the displacement of residents,” the police said in a statement issued from the NPS headquarters in Nairobi.
Informal Settlements Among Worst Affected
Floodwaters heavily affected several densely populated neighbourhoods, particularly informal settlements located along riverbanks and drainage corridors.
Areas cited by authorities include Mukuru, Kibra, Mathare and Huruma, as well as parts of South B and South C, Pipeline in Embakasi, Roysambu, Kahawa West, Githurai and sections of Westlands.
Many of these communities experience repeated flooding during heavy rains because of poor drainage systems, blocked waterways and housing structures built near rivers and seasonal streams.
Emergency teams have been responding to distress calls from residents trapped by rising water levels.
Major Roads Disrupted
The floods also affected several key transport corridors within Nairobi, disrupting traffic and limiting access to some parts of the city.
Sections of Uhuru Highway, Mombasa Road, Thika Superhighway, Jogoo Road, Enterprise Road and Lang’ata Road were reported to be flooded or partially blocked.
Traffic disruptions were reported during the morning hours as motorists navigated waterlogged sections and emergency teams worked to clear debris and assist stranded residents.
Ongoing Rescue Operations
The National Police Service said response teams remain fully deployed across the affected areas and continue to conduct rescue operations while monitoring water levels.
The police are working alongside other government agencies and emergency responders to provide assistance to displaced residents and ensure public safety.
Authorities warned that the situation remains fluid as rainfall continues in some areas.
“We are monitoring the situation closely and are committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of all Kenyans, residents and visitors,” the police said.
Public Advisory
With heavy rains expected to continue in parts of the country, the police urged residents and motorists to remain vigilant and avoid flood-prone areas.
Members of the public have been encouraged to report emergencies or distress situations through the national emergency numbers 999, 911 or 112.
Authorities also urged motorists to observe traffic safety rules and avoid driving through flooded roads where water currents may pose serious risks.
The National Police Service said it would continue coordinating with other agencies as rescue efforts continue across the city.
