By Joshua Otieno | March 21, 2026
The government has sounded a nationwide warning following persistent heavy rainfall across the country, raising concerns over possible flooding, displacement of residents, and damage to property.
In a statement issued on Friday, Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura said authorities are actively tracking the ongoing March–April–May rainy season, which started earlier than usual and disrupted farming plans in many areas.
Farmers have now been encouraged to begin planting immediately to take advantage of the rains, even as the government rolls out emergency response measures in the most affected regions.
Thousands Impacted, Farms Devastated
An aerial survey conducted in Western Kenya by the Kenya Coast Guard Service, working alongside humanitarian partners, shows that at least 1,062 households have been affected — 471 in Migori County and 591 in Homa Bay County.
Over 2,000 acres of farmland have been destroyed, with key infrastructure such as roads and sanitation systems also severely damaged. Authorities have recommended urgent distribution of food supplies, medical support, and shelter to those affected.
In Nairobi, Nyanza Region, and other flood-prone areas, both national and county governments, together with development partners, have stepped up relief operations.
Emergency Teams Mobilized
Joint rescue teams made up of the Kenya Police Service, Kenya Defence Forces, Kenya Coast Guard Service, and the Kenya Red Cross have been deployed and are on high alert.
Ongoing relief efforts include:
- Distribution of food and essential supplies
- Provision of safe drinking water and sanitation services
- Psychosocial and mental health support in temporary shelters set up in schools and churches
The Ministry of Agriculture has further advised farmers to adopt certified farm inputs to improve resilience, while plans are underway to minimize post-harvest losses through better storage and drying systems.
At the same time, the Ministry of Housing is collaborating with county governments to set up permanent resettlement centres for displaced families.
Public Advised to Stay Cautious
Kenyans have been urged to remain alert and observe safety measures such as:
- Relocating to safer, higher areas when water levels rise
- Keeping off flooded roads and fast-flowing rivers
- Treating drinking water before use
- Relying only on official weather updates
Emergency response lines have also been activated to ensure quick assistance.
Westlands Building Collapse Under Probe
In a separate development, a multi-storey structure under construction collapsed in Brookside, Westlands.
Rescue teams retrieved the body of one man believed to be aged between 25 and 30 years. Earlier fears suggested two people were trapped, but officials later confirmed a single fatality.
Initial findings point to possible structural weaknesses, likely linked to failure to follow construction standards and the use of substandard materials. Authorities have conveyed condolences to the victim’s family.
More Rainfall Expected
The Kenya Meteorological Department has projected continued heavy rainfall between March 19 and March 24 in most parts of the country.
Most counties have been classified as high-risk zones, except parts of Marsabit County, Isiolo County, Wajir County, Mandera County, and Tana River County. Residents living near landslide-prone zones, especially around the Aberdare Range and Mount Kenya, have been urged to exercise extra caution.
Death Toll Rises
Official reports indicate that flooding incidents reported since March 6 have led to:
- 73 fatalities
- 4 injuries
- 9 missing persons
- 13,795 households displaced
- 66,568 people affected nationwide
The government has assured the public that it will continue to provide updates as the situation develops.
