Heavy rains pounded parts of Kenya this week, and Homa Bay County felt the full force. Rivers burst banks, low-lying areas turn into waterlogged zones, and families face displacement and lost homes.

Governor Gladys Wanga released a statement on Saturday, March 7, 2026, to address the crisis in Homa Bay County and Nairobi.

“We are deeply concerned by the devastating flooding currently affecting several parts of our country, including sections of Homa Bay County and the city of Nairobi,” Governor Wanga said.

“The heavy rains have caused significant disruption, displacement of families, destruction of property and loss of livelihoods.”

In Homa Bay County, the response kicks off immediately. Disaster response teams move onto the ground right away. They work alongside other government agencies, humanitarian partners, and community leaders. Their main job focuses on supporting affected families and making sure people get the emergency relief supplies they need.

“We are prioritising evacuation where necessary, providing emergency relief supplies, and closely monitoring areas that remain vulnerable to rising waters,” the governor explained.

Teams stay alert to spot spots where water rises fast and threatens lives. The statement stresses quick action.

“In Homa Bay County, our disaster response teams are actively on the ground working with other government agencies, humanitarian partners, and community leaders to support affected families,” Governor Wanga added.

The governor urged people in flood-prone areas to stay vigilant.

“Move to higher ground and strictly follow safety advisories issued by authorities,” she said.

Anyone who needs help or wants to report incidents can call the County Emergency Response Team.

“Our teams are on standby to coordinate support and respond to urgent cases,” the statement confirms.

Heavy rain hits

The floods come as the Kenya Meteorological Department warns of heavy rainfall continuing until March 9, 2026. The advisory highlights risks in the Lake Victoria Basin, which includes Homa Bay. Recent reports show more than 60 families affected in areas like Bala in Karachuonyo Constituency after River Oluch overflowed. Ten families lost their homes completely.

Governor Wanga extends sympathy nationwide. “Our thoughts and prayers are with every family that has been affected by these floods,” she said.

She also shows solidarity with Nairobi and other counties facing the same problems.

President William Ruto announced that the government will cover hospital bills for those injured or affected by the floods and are receiving treatment in public health facilities. Taking to X on March 7, 2026, Ruto said emergency humanitarian support would also be extended to families facing displacement and hardship.

He ordered the deployment of a multi-agency emergency response team, including the Kenya Defence Forces and other agencies, to coordinate rescue operations, move people to safer areas, and distribute relief food from national reserves.

“The national government is working closely with county administrations to ensure a coordinated response that prioritises the safety and well-being of our citizens,” Ruto stated, noting the ongoing Nairobi River Regeneration Programme as a long-term solution to reduce urban flooding risks.

The flooding situation has led to the loss of 23 lives in Nairobi alone, according to the latest data from the National Police Service.