Kenya Floods: Death Toll Reaches 210 Amid Heavy Rains

The death toll from the raging floods and landslides triggered by heavy rains in Kenya since March has risen to 210, with dozens of people still missing, the government announced on Friday.

The Ministry of Interior and National Administration reported that 196,296 individuals have been affected by the heavy rains, resulting in homelessness and damage to roads, bridges, and essential infrastructure nationwide.

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In a statement released from Nairobi, the ministry reported that 125 individuals have been injured, with 90 people currently unaccounted for.

About 33,100 households have been displaced, affecting around 165,500 people, and 1,967 schools have had their infrastructure destroyed by the floods.

“All citizens and non-citizens are advised to adhere to guidance and evacuation orders provided by authorities, limit travel to essential trips only, and stay vigilant over the weekend,” the ministry said.

In the course of rescue efforts, the police recovered 16 bodies on Thursday. The meteorological department forecasted heavy to extremely heavy rainfall and thunderstorms in more than 33 counties, including the capital Nairobi, from Friday to Sunday.

Although there are sunny intervals in the coastal region, Tropical Cyclone Hidaya, formed over the South Indian Ocean, is expected to bring strong winds, large ocean waves, and heavy rainfall starting on Sunday.

The ministry said that mandatory evacuation along rivers in Nairobi County is underway, with the government facilitating logistical support, temporary shelter and essential supplies to those affected.

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“Flooding is expected in low-lying areas, riparian areas and urban areas, while landslides/mudslides may occur in areas with steep slopes, escarpments, and ravines,” the ministry added.

Cases of landslides and mudslides in central Kenya have impacted families, including young children, as reported by the Kenya Red Cross Society.

Authorities carried out a joint operation using ground and aerial units to rescue 90 tourists stranded in the renowned Maasai Mara National Reserve following a river overflow caused by heavy rainfall on Wednesday.