Police Confirm 23 Dead in Nairobi Floods After Friday’s Heavy Rains

Heavy overnight rains on March 6 caused massive flooding in Nairobi, killing 23 people, damaging property, and displacing residents
Rescue teams, including the police and partner agencies, worked through the night, rescuing 29 people from submerged areas
Authorities warned motorists as highways and areas like Mukuru, Kibra, Mathare, and South B/C were among the most affected

The National Police Service (NPS) has released new information about the floods that hit Nairobi on Friday night, March 6.

In a statement released on Saturday, March 7, the police explained that the heavy rain that fell overnight caused severe flooding, disrupted transportation, damaged property, and displaced residents. Rescue teams were immediately mobilized as emergency calls poured in from many neighborhoods.

“The National Police Service wishes to inform the public of the ongoing search and rescue operations following the heavy rain that fell overnight, which has caused severe flooding and disruption in various parts of Nairobi,” the statement read.

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Authorities confirmed that the floods have already caused deaths and caused extensive damage.

“Heavy rains have caused severe flooding, unfortunately leading to 23 deaths so far, property damage, road closures, and displacement of residents,” the statement added.

Police noted that residential areas and informal settlements were among the most affected, with rescue teams focusing their efforts there. Motorists were also warned of major roads affected by flooding and congestion.

“The most affected areas include Mukuru, Kibra, Mathare, Huruma, South B and C, Pipeline/Embakasi, Roysambu, Kahawa West, Githurai, and parts of Westlands. In addition, parts of Uhuru Highway, Mombasa Road, Thika Highway, Jogoo Road, Enterprise Road, and Lang’ata Road are also affected,” the statement added.

Emergency responders, including police officers and partner agencies, worked through the night to help stranded residents and coordinate rescues.

“In response to the emergency, the National Police Service, in collaboration with other stakeholders, quickly took action to carry out search and rescue operations throughout the night,” the statement further read.