Govt Issues Nationwide Flood Alert as Death Toll Hits 73, Government spokesperson Isaac Mwaura Urges Vigilance Amid Intensifying Rains
By Irene
Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura has assured Kenyans that authorities are on high alert as heavy rains continue to intensify across the country, leaving dozens dead and thousands displaced.
In a statement issued by the Multi-Agency Emergency Response Secretariat, the government said it is closely monitoring the ongoing March–April–May rainy season, which began earlier than expected, catching many farmers unprepared.
Farmers have now been urged to move quickly and begin planting to take advantage of the long rains.
According to the Kenya Meteorological Department, rainfall currently being experienced in several regions is expected to intensify between March 19 and March 24, 2026. With the exception of parts of Marsabit, Isiolo, Wajir, Mandera, and Tana River counties, the rest of the country has been classified as areas of concern, prompting county governments to activate emergency preparedness measures.
Residents in affected areas have been advised to remain vigilant, particularly against flash floods, poor visibility, and lightning strikes. Those living in landslide-prone zones such as the Aberdare ranges and Mt. Kenya slopes have been urged to exercise extra caution.
The impact of the ongoing rains has already been severe. At least 73 people have lost their lives, four have been injured, and nine remain missing. Additionally, 13,795 households have been displaced, with a total of 66,568 people affected nationwide.
In response, the government, through the Kenya Coast Guard Service, in collaboration with the Kenya Red Cross Society and Airbus Foundation, conducted an aerial assessment in western Kenya. The assessment revealed that 1,062 households were affected—471 in Migori County and 591 in Homa Bay County—with more than 2,000 acres of crops destroyed, roads cut off, and sanitation facilities damaged.
Humanitarian interventions are ongoing in affected regions including Nairobi and Nyanza. Relief efforts include the provision of food, non-food items, water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) supplies, and mental health and psychosocial support in camps set up in churches and schools.
Multi-agency rescue teams comprising the Kenya Police Service, Kenya Defence Forces, the Kenya Coast Guard Service, and the Kenya Red Cross remain on standby, monitoring the situation and conducting community sensitization on safety measures.
The Ministry of Agriculture has advised farmers to use quality inputs to boost productivity and resilience, while also promoting post-harvest management solutions such as grain drying and storage facilities to reduce losses. Meanwhile, the Ministry of Housing is working with county governments to establish permanent social rescue centres to support displaced persons as part of long-term disaster preparedness.
Kenyans have been urged to take precautionary measures, including evacuating to higher ground when necessary, avoiding flooded roads and rivers, boiling drinking water, and relying only on official updates from government agencies to avoid misinformation.
In a separate incident, the government confirmed the collapse of a multi-storey building under construction in the Brookside area of Westlands, Nairobi. A multi-agency rescue team recovered the body of one man believed to be aged between 25 and 30 years. Initial reports had indicated two people were trapped, but it was later confirmed that only one individual was missing.
Preliminary findings suggest the collapse may have been caused by structural failure linked to non-compliance with construction standards and the use of substandard materials. The government has conveyed its condolences to the bereaved family as investigations continue.
Mwaura reiterated the government’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property, urging citizens to remain alert and cooperate with emergency teams as the rains intensify across the country.
