Weatherman warns of flash flooding and runoff risks
By Cynthia Lodite, March 7, 2026The Kenya Meteorological Department has announced that more rain is likely to continue over several parts of Nairobi, as the death toll hits 23.
In a post on the official X account on Saturday, March 7, 2026, the Met department announced that the rains will be active until Monday, March 9, 2026.
Meanwhile, the report further indicates that soils remain saturated while flash flooding and runoff risks are high despite moderate falls.
“Heavy Rainfall Advisory No. 02/2026 active until 9 March 19:00 EAT) Moderate to heavy rains likely to continue over several parts of the metropolitan region. Soils remain saturated — flash flooding and runoff risks are high even with moderate falls. 24-Hour Outlook Highlights (valid 09:00 07MAR – 09:00 08MAR):
According to the Meteorological Department, Nairobi County will receive widespread heavy rainfall, with residents living within the low-lying areas being at high risk.
The areas with isolated intense showers include Kibra, Dagoretti North/South, Embakasi zones, Makadara, Kamukunji, Roysambu, Westlands, Langata, and Mathare.
“Nairobi County Widespread moderate–heavy showers: 20–60 mm common across most areas; isolated intense pockets up to 80–100 mm possible, especially in Kibra (deep blue), Dagoretti North/South, Embakasi zones, Makadara, Kamukunji, Roysambu, Westlands, Langata, and Mathare. Highest risk in low-lying/poorly drained urban spots,” Kenya Met said.
The weather department has announced that Kajiado County will experience widespread heavy falls, with elevated flash floods.
“Orange/red hotspots (40–100 mm) concentrated in Kajiado North, West, and Central elevated flash flood & runoff potential near Nairobi borders,” Kenya Met said.
Likewise, Kiambu County is expected to receive significant accumulations of about 40–80+ mm with a mudslide and landslide threat on steep slopes.
The zones include Gatundu North/South, Thika Town, Juja, Ruiru, Limuru, Kikuyu, Githunguri, Kabete, and parts of Kiambu.
On the other hand, Machakos County, including the Masinga area, is expected to receive widespread heavy rains of up to 50–80+ mm.
Meanwhile, according to the Met department, in northern/eastern sub-counties, which include Masinga, Mavoko, Kathiani, Machakos Town, Matungulu, Yatta, Kangundo, flash flooding is likely in river catchments & lowlands.
Floods casualties report
The National Police Service (NPS) has issued an update on the aftermath of the widespread flooding and disruption witnessed across various parts of Nairobi.
In a statement released by the National Police Service on Saturday, March 7, 2026, the police confirmed twenty-three casualties, with at least twenty-nine people successfully rescued from various locations.
“The National Police Service wishes to update the public on the ongoing search and rescue operations following the heavy overnight rainfall, which has caused widespread flooding and disruption across various parts of Nairobi,” NPS said.
The police officers have confirmed that the heavy downpour has led to the destruction of property, road closures, and the displacement of residents within Nairobi.