Death toll hits 88 as devastating floods displace thousands
By Mustafa Juma, March 25, 2026The death toll from ongoing floods triggered by heavy rains across the country has risen to 88.
The National Police Service (NPS), in an update issued via X on Wednesday, March 25, 2026, noted that thousands of families have also been displaced and critical infrastructure severely damaged.
According to the NPS, at least 2,690 families have been forced to flee their homes and are currently sheltering in temporary evacuation centres as torrential rains continue to pound several regions.
Landslides
In one of the most tragic incidents, a landslide in Kilungu Sub-County in Makueni County claimed the lives of two children and left four others injured.
Authorities say the situation remains volatile, with more areas at risk of landslides and flash floods as rainfall persists.
“As torrential rains continue across the nation, several areas are experiencing severe flooding, landslides, and other risks associated with heavy rain, leaving communities in distress and critical infrastructure heavily affected. In Kilungu Sub-County, Makueni County, a landslide tragically claimed the lives of two children and left four others injured,” NPS stated.
“As of 24th March 2026, reports from various regions indicate that the number of lives lost due to the ongoing floods has risen to 88, with 2,690 families displaced and taking refuge in temporary evacuation centres.”
Infrastructure destroyed
The heavy downpours have rendered numerous roads impassable and destroyed key bridges, complicating rescue and relief efforts.
Emergency teams are struggling to access some of the worst-hit areas, delaying assistance to affected communities.
Multi-agency response teams, including police and disaster response units, have been deployed across the country and remain on high alert.
They are currently conducting search and rescue operations, distributing relief supplies, and working to restore access to damaged infrastructure.
“The ongoing heavy downpours have also rendered numerous roads impassable and caused significant damage to several bridges, complicating relief operations and restricting access to affected communities,” the statement reads in part.
“Multi-agency response teams remain on high alert, conducting search and rescue operations, providing relief assistance, and working to restore access to critical infrastructure.”
Heavy rains to persist
The Kenya Meteorological Department has continued to monitor the situation, warning that the heavy rains are likely to persist in the coming days.
Authorities have urged members of the public to remain vigilant and strictly adhere to safety guidelines, including avoiding crossing flooded rivers and refraining from driving through fast-moving water.
Residents in high-risk areas have also been advised to relocate immediately when instructed by emergency services.
The government has called on citizens to report emergencies through official channels, including emergency lines 999 and 911, as well as anonymous reporting platforms.