Kenya Red Cross deploys rescue teams as floods disrupt parts of Nairobi, Kajiado and Northern Kenya
By Ndiritu Wanjiru, May 1, 2026The Kenya Red Cross is on high alert and has sent in response teams to help after heavy rains caused flooding in various parts of the country, leaving people stranded and roads blocked, with search and rescue operations underway.
Taking it to their social media handles on Friday, May 1, 2026, the Kenya Red Cross has said that the crisis has been most pronounced along Mombasa Road, particularly the Eastern Bypass section, where floodwaters have resulted in flooding and traffic disruptions on one of Nairobi’s major transport routes.
In Mukuru Kwa Njenga, authorities are responding to reports, yet to be confirmed, of missing people and families stranded by the floodwaters. The Kenya Red Cross Society has sent teams to gauge the impact and help with search and rescue efforts.
Following a heavy downpour, rising water levels have been reported along Mombasa Road (Eastern Bypass), resulting in flooding. In Mukuru kwa Njenga, there are unconfirmed reports of missing persons and marooned households. Kenya Red Cross Nairobi teams are en route for assessment and possible response,” the Kenya Red Cross noted.
Flash floods disrupt Nairobi’s transport network
Elsewhere, flash floods caused further commuter delays at T-Mall on Lang’ata Road, where a car was left stranded in a ditch with people inside. Rescue teams were able to quickly evacuate the occupants.
This incident highlights the growing fragility of Nairobi’s roads during heavy rains.
Successful rescue in Kajiado
In Kajiado, the overflowing Kandisi River along Magadi Road trapped three people in a lorry due to flooding. Emergency personnel were able to reach the lorry, rescuing everyone inside despite the rising floodwaters and challenging circumstances.
The rescue underscores the ever-present threat of flooding in low-lying transport corridors during the rainy season.
Northern Kenya also affected
Moyale in Marsabit County has also reported flash floods, suggesting the weather anomaly currently impacting several parts of the country.
The ongoing rains have authorities on high alert as they monitor the situation.
Kenya Red Cross on standby
The Kenya Red Cross has stated that its units are on alert for possible search and rescue missions in the days ahead. The organisation’s rapid response teams are on the ground to provide support for evacuations, assessments and relief.
People in flood-prone regions have been advised to take precautions, avoid wading through rivers and roads, and adhere to guidelines provided by disaster management authorities.