The Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) has issued an emergency traffic alert following a catastrophic accident on the Southern Bypass.

The incident, which occurred on 24th January 2026, involved a massive fire that has forced the total closure of the Mombasa Road-bound section of the highway.

According to the official report from KeNHA, the blaze was sparked by a serious traffic incident involving two tankers.

However, local police reports clarify that the collision occurred between a fuel tanker and a lorry carrying bales of flour near the bridge behind the Carnivore Restaurant.

Tanker Plummets to Lower Road

The impact was so severe that one fuel tanker reportedly fell from the Southern Bypass onto the lower road before erupting into flames. This created an immediate and significant explosion risk for motorists and nearby residents.

Police and emergency services arrived on the scene to find the tanker engulfed in thick black smoke. Lang’ata Sub-County Police Commander Pius Mwanthi confirmed that the driver of the flour lorry died in the crash, while the tanker driver was rescued and rushed to hospital.

"The Southern Bypass has been temporarily closed to facilitate emergency response and ensure public safety,” KeNHA Official Statement read in part.

Traffic Diversions and Public Safety

Firefighting teams are currently working to contain the fire, while traffic police have secured the surrounding area. To manage the resulting gridlock, KeNHA has released the following directives for motorists:

• Avoid the Southern Bypass: Motorists are advised to stay away from the route until further notice.

• Use Diversions: Those seeking to access Mombasa Road must divert via Lang’ata Road.

ALSO READ: Petrol tanker explodes in Bungoma, kills driver

• Alternative Routes: Drivers should anticipate delays on all surrounding roads and seek alternative paths where possible.

Authorities have issued a stern warning to the public to stay away from the accident site. Fuel fires are notoriously unpredictable and pose an extreme danger of secondary explosions.

Residents in the vicinity are urged to remain alert to heavy smoke and restricted movement as emergency operations continue.

A History of Road Risk

Authorities noted that this incident serves as a grim reminder of the dangers posed by fuel transport on Kenyan roads. They referenced the 2009 Sachangwan tragedy, where a similar tanker accident led to the deaths of over 100 people who had gathered at the scene.

KeNHA has expressed regret for the inconvenience caused by the closure. The authority stated that updates will be provided as the situation evolves and safety is restored.