At least 10 people have lost their lives following heavy rains pounding several parts of the country, triggering floods, landslides and widespread disruption to transport and infrastructure, the National Police Service (NPS) has confirmed.
According to police reports, the Eastern region has been the hardest hit, accounting for seven of the reported deaths as the ongoing rains continue to wreak havoc across vulnerable areas. Authorities, however, did not immediately provide details on the exact circumstances surrounding the fatalities, even as they warned that the risk remains high.
The impact of the rains has also been felt in key transport networks, with critical infrastructure damaged and some communities cut off. Mwena Bridge in Kwale County and Ngomeni Bridge in Kitui County have both sustained significant damage, disrupting movement and access in the affected regions.
In Elgeyo Marakwet County, a landslide was reported in Tambach Sub-county, raising concerns over the safety of residents living in highland areas prone to such disasters. Authorities have warned that continued rainfall and waterlogged soils could trigger more landslides in the coming days.
A separate landslide has also blocked a section of the Iten–Kabarnet Road near Kolol, further complicating transport in the region. The Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) confirmed the disruption, noting that efforts are underway to clear the debris and restore traffic flow.
Motorists have been advised to use alternative routes, including the Iten–Eldoret–Eldama Ravine–Kabarnet road, as authorities work to reopen the affected section. KeNHA has urged road users to exercise caution and follow instructions from police officers and traffic marshals deployed at the site.
Emergency response teams have since been deployed in affected areas to carry out rescue operations, assist displaced residents and restore essential services. The National Police Service said teams remain on high alert as the situation evolves.
Residents in flood-prone and landslide-risk areas have been urged to remain vigilant, avoid crossing flooded roads and rivers, and adhere to safety advisories issued by authorities.
The Kenya Meteorological Service continues to monitor the weather patterns and provide updates, warning that the heavy rains are likely to persist in several regions.
As the country grapples with the effects of the ongoing downpour, authorities are calling for heightened preparedness and cooperation from the public to minimise further loss of life and damage.
