Nairobi is reeling after intense rains that struck the city on Friday night, leaving at least 23 people dead and causing widespread destruction. The National Police Service (NPS) confirmed that 13 more bodies were recovered by Saturday afternoon, bringing the total fatalities to 23.
Police say the heavy rainfall, combined with inadequate drainage in several parts of the capital, has resulted in road closures, property damage, and displacement of residents.
“The torrential rains have led to significant flooding, unfortunately resulting in 23 fatalities so far, the destruction of property, road closures, and the displacement of residents,” the police said in a statement signed by spokesperson Muchiri Nyaga.
Security and emergency teams have identified the hardest-hit neighborhoods as Mukuru, Kibra, Mathare, Huruma, South B and C, Pipeline/Embakasi, Roysambu, Kahawa West, Githurai, and parts of Westlands.
The floods have also affected key roads, including Uhuru Highway, Mombasa Road, Thika Superhighway, Jogoo Road, Enterprise Road, and Lang’ata Road, causing traffic disruptions and hampering rescue efforts. Authorities continue to assess the situation as emergency response teams assist those displaced and work to restore access to affected areas.
The police have urged residents to stay vigilant and avoid flooded areas as heavy rains are expected to persist in some parts of the city.
