Last mentioned: Mar 22, 2026
Official Report
Government officials confirm the death toll has reached 81 for the month.
Escalation
Widespread flooding reported in Nairobi and Rift Valley regions as rivers burst banks.
Death Toll Reaches 45
Official government figures confirm 45 fatalities as search and rescue operations continue.
Regional Impact
Flooding reported in neighboring counties, cutting off major highways linking Nairobi to the coast.
Airport Closure
JKIA authorities announce a temporary suspension of all flights due to safety concerns.
Casualties Reported
Emergency services confirm the first fatalities as flash floods sweep through informal settlements.
Rainfall Intensifies
Heavy downpours begin across the Kenyan highlands and Nairobi basin.
Infrastructure Failure
Key bridges in the Tana River County are washed away, isolating several communities.
First Fatalities
Initial reports of 12 deaths following flash floods in Nairobi and Narok.
Season Onset
The 'long rains' season begins across Kenya with higher-than-average intensity.
Onset of Rains
Heavy seasonal rains begin across the Lake Victoria basin and central highlands.
Torrential rains across Kenya have claimed 81 lives in March 2026, triggering widespread flooding and infrastructure damage. The crisis underscores the increasing vulnerability of East African nations to extreme weather events during the traditional long rains season.
A devastating wave of flash floods in Kenya has claimed 45 lives, highlighting the country's growing vulnerability to climate-induced rainfall variability. The disaster has displaced thousands and severely impacted infrastructure, prompting urgent calls for enhanced flood resilience and climate adaptation strategies.
Severe flooding in Kenya has resulted in at least 10 fatalities and significant infrastructure damage, including the suspension of operations at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport. The event underscores the increasing vulnerability of East African transport hubs to climate-induced extreme weather.