A 14-seater matatu carrying passengers was, on Tuesday, March 31, 2026, swept away by raging floodwaters while attempting to cross the Basilinga River in Samburu County, in a dramatic mid-morning incident.

According to an update from the Kenya Red Cross, the vehicle was caught in the fast-rising waters at around 11:45 a.m. while navigating the seasonal river crossing.

Despite the terrifying ordeal, all 14 passengers on board were safely accounted for, with no injuries reported.

Rescue efforts and local response teams moved quickly to ensure everyone was out of harm’s way.

Matatu stuck

However, the matatu remains stuck in the river, partially submerged, as efforts to retrieve it await a reduction in water levels.

“A 14-seater matatu was swept by floodwaters while crossing the Basilinga River, Samburu at around 11:45 AM. All 14 passengers are safe and accounted for, though the vehicle remains stuck,” Kenya Red Cross stated in a statement issued on Tuesday, March 31, 2026.

The incident has led to a major disruption along the route, with transport brought to a standstill.

Vehicles and passengers have been stranded on both sides of the river, unable to proceed due to the dangerously high water levels.

“Transport along the route is currently disrupted, with vehicles and passengers stranded on both sides awaiting reduced water levels,” the statement read.

Authorities have advised motorists to avoid attempting to cross flooded sections, warning that conditions remain unpredictable and potentially life-threatening.

The Samburu incident is part of a wider pattern of flooding being reported in several parts of the country following sustained rainfall.

Flood death toll

The National Police Service (NPS) reported that an additional five people have lost their lives following the deadly floods witnessed in the country, bringing the national toll to 108 fatalities.

In a statement by the National Police Service on X on Saturday, March 28, 2026, the NPS cautioned members of the public that the risk of flooding remains due to factors such as saturated ground.

Following the recent reports on the flood death toll by the police, two were recorded in the Western Region, two in the North Eastern Region, and one in the Rift Valley.

At the same time, the police have urged members of the public to remain cautious, particularly in areas previously affected by the deadly floods.