Floods Kill 84, Displace Hundreds Across Western and Coastal Kenya
Severe flooding triggered by heavy rains has killed at least 84 people and left three others missing across several parts of Kenya, authorities said Tuesday.
The Ministry of Interior and National Administration said rivers in Kisumu, Tana River and Uasin Gishu counties have overflowed, submerging homes, farms and key infrastructure as water levels continue to rise.
In Kisumu County, River Nyando burst its banks, flooding multiple areas including Kakola, Onjiko, Kochogo, East Kano, Okanja, Kamidumbi and Panadol.
Authorities warned that lower parts of Kakola Ombaka Sub-Location and communities along streams such as Awach, Agala, Nyalbiego, Chamrogi and Nyaidho remain at high risk.
“Field reports indicate rapid rise at river levels with strong currents, flowing across Awasi, Onjiko, Kochogo and Kakola, increasing the risk of flash floods,” the ministry said in a statement.
Emergency response teams, including the Kenya Coast Guard Service, the Kenya Red Cross and Kisumu County disaster management officials, are conducting rescue operations and assisting affected residents. National Government Administrative Officers are also monitoring the situation on the ground.
Although some floodwaters in Magina Sub-Location remain contained within dykes, officials cautioned that weakened sections along both the eastern and western dykes could give way if rains persist.
The ministry warned that continued rainfall upstream could worsen flooding in Okanja, Kamidumbi and Panadol, as well as areas near Ahero Girls and Kakola Ombaka. Sections of the Kisumu-Nairobi road are also at risk of flooding.
Residents have been urged to remain vigilant as emergency teams remain on high alert.
In Tana River County, River Tana has also burst its banks, inundating farms in Asako Village in Mbalambala Location, raising concerns over food security and livelihoods.
Meanwhile, in Uasin Gishu County, a multi-agency team assessing River Sosiani reported rising water levels that have already flooded lawns in residential and hospitality facilities in Lower Elgon View, Racecourse Location.
Authorities said the situation remains fluid and warned of potential further destruction if rains continue.
“More updates will be provided in due course,” the ministry said, adding that coordination between national and county teams is ongoing to prevent further loss of life and property.
Residents in affected areas have been advised to avoid low-lying zones and stay informed through official communication channels.
