Dozens killed, hundreds displaced as heavy rains batter several counties

Heavy rains have caused landslides, flooding, and widespread displacement across several counties in Kenya, with the Ministry of Interior and National Administration reporting several deaths and injuries recorded in different regions.

In a statement on Saturday, the ministry said the short rains have intensified in several parts of the country, resulting in tragic loss of life, injuries, and destruction of property from flash floods and landslides.

"According to forecasts by the Kenya Meteorological Department, heavy rainfall is expected to persist in several regions, heightening the risk of flash floods and landslides, particularly in hilly and riverine areas," said the Ministry.

In Elgeyo Marakwet County, one of the worst-hit areas, a landslide struck Machember Sub-location in Mukurtwo Location following intense rainfall.

The ministry added that mudslides along access routes had hampered operations, with the Kapsowar–Chesoi Road completely cut off.

The rains have also caused flooding and displacement in other parts of the country. In Tana River County, 67 households have been submerged in Dhuhush, Lebille, Bultobanta, and Bangale, resulting in the loss of livestock, including 170 sheep and goats and one camel.

Garissa County has reported the loss of about 300 goats in Guthoi, Shimbirey Location, while Kisumu Central and East Sub-counties have seen more than 340 households affected by rising water levels.

"In a separate incident, a 15-year-old boy drowned along River Obonyo in Kapounja, Kisumu West Sub-County, after being swept away by floodwaters. These incidents underscore the heavy human toll of the rains, and we extend our deepest condolences to the affected families," the Ministry stated.

In Laikipia County, 89 households around Lobere Dam have been displaced after multiple dams overflowed following heavy overnight rainfall.

In Mombasa, localised flooding has been reported in Mburukenge and Kaa Chonjo informal settlements, which the ministry linked to incomplete stormwater drainage systems.

The government has deployed a multi-agency team comprising National Government Administration Officers, the National Police Service, the Kenya Red Cross, and other agencies to coordinate rescue and humanitarian response across affected counties.

Members of the public have been urged to avoid flooded roads and rivers, move from landslide-prone slopes, and follow advisories issued by county and national authorities.

Meanwhile, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has announced a temporary pause in search and rescue operations in Marakwet East, where 21 people have so far been confirmed dead and more than 30 others remain unaccounted for. He said the decision was made due to worsening weather and unstable terrain that have made access to the affected areas difficult.

“We have paused our search and rescue operations for today. We have confirmed the loss of 21 people to this tragedy, while over 30 people are still unaccounted for, as reported by their families. 25 people with serious injuries have been airlifted to Eldoret for further medical attention, while others with minor injuries have been attended to locally," said Murkomen.

"The search and rescue mission resumes tomorrow with a team from the military and the police joining other organisations and the local community in the effort."

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