Flood deaths rise to 81 as heavy rains continue
By Faith Lagat, March 22, 2026The death toll from ongoing heavy rains and flash floods in Kenya has risen sharply to 81, according to the National Police Service (NPS) on March 22, 2026.
The surge in fatalities reflects the escalating severity of the disaster, as relentless downpours continue to batter several parts of the country.
In a press release, NPS confirmed that emergency response teams remain fully activated nationwide, with search and rescue operations ongoing in collaboration with other agencies.
“As of today, the cumulative number of fatalities has unfortunately risen to 81. Nairobi remains the hardest-hit region, with 37 victims.”
Nairobi has borne the brunt of the floods, recording 37 fatalities the highest among all regions. The Eastern region follows with 21 deaths, while the Coast has reported five, Nyanza seven, Rift Valley eight, and additional losses in Central region, contributing to the total.
The floods have displaced approximately 2,690 families, destroyed homes, damaged infrastructure, and caused extensive property loss. Low-lying areas have been inundated, transportation disrupted, and some communities left isolated and vulnerable.
“The Eastern region has recorded 21 fatalities, while the Coast region has reported a total of five. Nyanza region seven fatalities, the Rift Valley eight, and the Central region Additionally, flash floods have swept several areas, displacing approximately 2,690 families and causing widespread destruction of infrastructure and property.”
Warnings issued
The surge in casualties comes despite repeated warnings from authorities. On March 18, 2026, the Kenya Red Cross issued an alert cautioning that heavy rains would persist from March 18 to 24, heightening the risks of flash floods and landslides.
“Heavy rains expected across Kenya (March 18–24). Risk of flash floods & landslides. Stay safe,” the agency posted on X.
The Kenya Meteorological Department forecasted intensified rainfall exceeding 20mm in 24 hours in many areas between March 19 and 24, with peaks expected from March 20 to 23. Affected regions include the Lake Victoria Basin, Rift Valley, Highlands East and West of the Rift Valley, Nairobi, and coastal areas.
Counties flagged for potential flooding include Turkana, Samburu, Migori, Kisumu, Nairobi, Mombasa, Kilifi, and other arid and semi-arid lands, with floods possible even in places not directly receiving heavy rain due to downstream water flow.
Authorities urge vigilance
The Meteorological Department has urged the public to exercise caution against floods, poor visibility, and landslides, especially in vulnerable zones such as the Aberdare ranges and Mt Kenya slopes.
Residents are advised to avoid crossing flooded roads, walking through moving water, sheltering under trees during storms, or lingering near grilled windows to mitigate lightning risks.
Earlier reports showed the toll rising steadily, from 71 on March 17 to 81 as more bodies were recovered and incidents reported. The NPS emphasised public safety, urging Kenyans to heed advisories and report emergencies.
Authorities and humanitarian partners remain on high alert as rains are projected to persist, highlighting the urgent need for preparedness, infrastructure resilience, and adherence to safety guidelines to prevent further loss of life and livelihoods.