Heavy rainfall has caused widespread disruption across Nairobi, leaving commuters stranded, flooding major roads and contributing to four reported deaths nationwide within the last 48 hours.

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Residents across the capital were seen standing in long queues at bus stops as persistent downpours continued to pound the city. Many commuters waited in the rain for extended periods as public service vehicles struggled to navigate flooded roads and heavy traffic.

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Several parts of the city experienced transport delays, with some routes becoming impassable due to rising floodwaters.

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Flooded Streets Bring City to a Standstill

Severe flooding was reported in several neighborhoods, including:

  • Nairobi West
  • South C
  • South B
  • Sections of the central business district

Drainage systems in some areas were overwhelmed by sustained rainfall, causing water to accumulate rapidly on roads and footpaths.

Motorists reported being stranded for hours as vehicles struggled to pass through waterlogged sections of road. In some locations, drivers were forced to abandon flooded routes altogether.

Pedestrians were also affected, with many wading through knee-deep water to reach safer ground or access transport.

Commuters in several locations disembarked from buses and matatus after traffic came to a halt, forming long queues while waiting for alternative transport options.
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Emergency Response Operations

Emergency respondents, including teams from the Kenya Red Cross Society, were deployed to assist residents affected by flooding.

Rescue teams worked to reach stranded motorists and individuals trapped in flooded neighborhoods.

“We are severely limited by the traffic and the situation on what used to be roads,” said Secretary-General Ahmed Idris while describing the challenges facing rescue operations.

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Authorities also deployed units from the Kenya Defense Forces to support emergency response efforts in affected areas.

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Veteran Rescue Volunteer Dies During Operation

According to the Kenya Red Cross Society, Wangila died on 3 March 2026 during a rescue mission along the Mbagathi River near the Highrise area.
The incident occurred after rescue teams responded to a distress call involving a drowning case.
Wangila had served as a rescue volunteer for more than 15 years and had participated in numerous water rescue missions across the country.
  • Over 15 years of volunteer service
  • Participated in multiple aqua rescue operations nationwide
  • Received a Special Recognition Award during the 2025 Volunteer Awards
The organisation described him as one of its most experienced volunteers.
“He dedicated years of service to saving lives during emergencies,” the organisation said in a statement.

Rainfall Expected to Continue

The Kenya Meteorological Department had earlier warned of heavy rainfall across Nairobi and surrounding counties between 3 and 9 March.
Forecasts indicate that some areas could receive between 30 and 50 millimeters of rain within 24 hours.
Emergency respondents continue to monitor the situation as the seasonal rains intensify across parts of Kenya.
Flooding during seasonal rainfall remains a recurring challenge in several regions of the country, often resulting in displacement, infrastructure damage and disruptions to transport.
Authorities have urged residents living near rivers and flood-prone areas to remain vigilant as heavy rains continue in multiple regions.