KeNHA closes Marigat–Loruk Road due to rising Lake Baringo floodwaters
Motorists have been warned to avoid the area as the floodwaters continue to threaten travel, with an alternative route now in place to ease movement.
The Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) has closed a section of the Marigat–Loruk (B17) Road after rising waters from Lake Baringo made the stretch unsafe for motorists.
Motorists have been warned to avoid the area as the floodwaters continue to threaten travel, with an alternative route now in place to ease movement.
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In a statement, 2025, KeNHA Acting Director General Luka Kimeli confirmed that the affected stretch lies between Km 29+800 and Km 40+000.
“The Kenya National Highways Authority regrets to inform the public of the closure of Marigat-Loruk (B17) Road between Km 29+800 and Km 40+000. This is due to flooding of the road caused by the fast-rising water levels of Lake Baringo,” it said.
To ease movement, KeNHA has graded a diversion at Km 29+200 on the Marigat–Loruk Road, which links up with the Loruk–Chemalingot route at Km 2+400.
“The available alternative route has been graded as a diversion at Km 29+200 on the Marigat-Loruk (B17) Road that will intersect on Loruk-Chemalingot at Km 2+400. The Authority cautions road users against any attempts to use this section of the road in the interest of their safety. We will continue to monitor the situation and advise when the water levels recede,” Kimeli added.
KeNHA assured the public that it is keeping close watch on the situation and will reopen the road once water levels go down.
The closure is expected to cause major disruptions to transport and trade in the region, given that the Marigat–Loruk road serves as a key link for the movement of people, goods, and services across Baringo County.
Flooding around Lake Baringo has been a recurring challenge in recent years, with swelling waters frequently submerging roads, schools and farmlands. Experts have attributed the phenomenon to climate change, siltation, and geological shifts in the Rift Valley region.
Despite the setback, the authority reiterated its commitment to safeguarding road users and maintaining connectivity.
“The Authority remains committed to ensuring seamless connectivity to facilitate safe passage of goods and services for economic prosperity. At KeNHA, your safety is our utmost priority,” it said.
Elsewhere, the government has moved to relocate Elmolo Bay Primary School in Loiyangalani, Marsabit County, to higher grounds, highlighting the ongoing effects of climate change.
The relocation, prompted by rising waters of Lake Turkana, reflects the government’s evolving approach to building resilience in vulnerable communities. Once home to 400 pupils, the school’s enrolment has dropped to just 150 since a 2018 geological tremor triggered rising water levels across the Rift Valley lakes.
Public Service CS Geoffrey Ruku, confirmed that the relocation will be carried out in partnership with local leaders and civil society organisations.
Framing the initiative as both a safety measure and a community investment, Ruku said, “Relocating this school is not just about safety, it’s about securing the future of this community.”
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