Over 100 households hit as heavy rains pound in Coast, search on for missing rider

Heavy rains and strong winds have hit coastal Kenya, leaving more than 100 households affected and forcing several families from their homes in Mombasa and Kwale counties, as rescue teams continue searching for a boda boda rider swept away by floodwaters.

Data from the Kenya Red Cross shows that 103 households in Mombasa have been impacted, with at least nine people displaced in Jomvu, Kisauni, Changamwe and Likoni. In Freretown, homes suffered damage after roofs were blown off, while floodwaters filled low-lying areas. Flash floods were also reported in Nyali, adding to the growing list of affected locations.

The floods have also disrupted access to health services. Jomvu Model Hospital and Tudor Sub-County Health Facility cannot be reached due to rising water levels, raising concerns over how residents will access medical care.

In Kwale County, five households have been affected in Lungalunga and Vanga. Search efforts are ongoing for a boda boda rider who was carried away while trying to cross a flooded bridge near Shimba Hills.

The Kenya Red Cross said it is still assessing the situation and continuing response efforts to assist those affected, as teams remain on the ground.

The unfolding crisis follows a warning issued by the Kenya Meteorological Department on intensified rainfall across the Coast and other regions.

“Rainfall is expected to continue across several parts of the country,” the department said in its advisory. “From 22nd April to 27th April 2026, the rainfall is likely to intensify, with accumulations exceeding 20mm in 24 hours over the Coast, as well as parts of the Northeastern and Southeastern Lowlands.”

The department warned that the weather could come with additional dangers, including strong winds and rough sea conditions along the coastline.

“The upcoming rainfall may be accompanied by gusty winds exceeding 25 knots (12.5 m/s). Additionally, sea waves are expected to reach heights of more than 2 meters along the Coast,” it warned.

Authorities also cautioned that flooding could occur even in areas without heavy rainfall.

“Note that flood waters may occur in areas where it has not rained heavily, particularly downstream,” the department added.

Residents have been advised to stay alert, avoid walking or driving through moving water, and take extra care during activities at sea, as emergency teams remain on standby for more incidents.