The Kenya Red Cross has announced that a forest fire broke out in Taita Taveta County, days after a separate blaze threatened parts of Lake Nakuru National Park.

In a post on the Red Cross official X account on Tuesday, February 10, 2026, the authority announced that the blaze affected sections of Irizi Forest in Mwatate.

The Kenya Red Cross announced that the teams were already on the ground, working jointly with the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) officers, local authorities, partners, and members of the community to control the fire.

“A widespread forest fire has affected parts of Irizi Forest in Mwatate, Taita Taveta County. Kenya Red Cross is on the ground with KWS, partners, authorities and the community. Hilly terrain is challenging for containment, and aerial support is being considered,” the Red Cross stated.

KWS warns of fire

This comes just days after the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) issued a public warning after a fire spread into Lake Nakuru National Park on Friday, February 6, 2026.

According to a post by KWS on Saturday, February 7, 2026, the blaze started at Lake View Estate around 4:00 pm and quickly reached the Honeymoon Hill area, posing a threat to wildlife and habitats.

KWS detailed that, with support from the community, the City Fire Team, and Bondeni Police, the fire was successfully contained by 10:00 pm.

“Yesterday, approximately 4:00 p m., a fire originating from Lake View Estate spread into Lake Nakuru National Park, affecting the Honeymoon Hill area. Kenya Wildlife Service, with support from the community, the City Fire Team and Bondeni Police, responded swiftly and successfully contained the fire by 10:00 pm,” KWS wrote.

The agency confirmed that no injuries or fatalities occurred and that wildlife in the park remained largely unharmed.

KWS praised the rapid response of all teams involved, noting that coordinated efforts were critical in controlling the blaze.

Public advisory

The service cautioned the public against lighting fires during the dry season, warning that strong winds and dry vegetation can make fires spread quickly, posing serious risks to human life, wildlife, property, and the environment.

“The public is cautioned against lighting fires during the dry season, as strong winds and dry vegetation can cause fires to spread rapidly, posing serious risks to human life, wildlife, property and the environment,” KWS said.

KWS added that such incidents destroy habitats, reduce grazing areas, and heighten human–wildlife conflict.

Images and footage shared on social media showed long lines of bright orange flames and thick smoke spreading across the hills and open land.

KWS noted the significant role local residents played in helping contain the fire. “We thank all partners and community members for their prompt support and cooperation in protecting the park,” the agency said, highlighting the importance of conservation partnerships.