US sends condolences to Kenya after deadly Nairobi floods

The United States has expressed condolences to Kenya following the loss of lives and widespread destruction caused by recent floods that have affected parts of the country, including the capital Nairobi.

In a message of sympathy, the US said it was deeply saddened by the deaths and the suffering experienced by families and communities displaced by the flooding.

The floods, triggered by heavy and persistent rainfall over the past several days, have left over 40 people dead and displaced many residents.

The US extended its condolences to the families of the victims and to all those who have been forced to leave their homes due to the disaster.

Susan M. Burns, the Chargé d'Affaires at the United States Embassy in Nairobi, conveyed the message of solidarity in a statement shared online, expressing sympathy for those affected by the tragedy.

“My heart goes out to the families who lost loved ones and to all of our Kenyan friends and neighbours who are suffering,” Burns posted.

Her message came as emergency responders and humanitarian organisations continued rescue and relief operations in flood-hit neighbourhoods across Nairobi and other affected regions.

Several low-lying areas in the city have been particularly hard hit after floodwaters swept through homes, roads and businesses, leaving residents stranded and causing significant property damage.

Authorities have warned that more heavy rains could occur in the coming days, raising concerns about further flooding in vulnerable communities.

Humanitarian agencies have been mobilising to assist affected families by providing emergency shelter, food supplies and medical support to those displaced by the disaster.

The United States is among Kenya’s longstanding international partners and has often supported humanitarian and disaster response efforts in the region.

The Kenya Meteorological Department (KMD) has issued a heavy rainfall advisory for the Nairobi Metropolitan region, warning residents to remain vigilant as showers and isolated thunderstorms continue across the area.

The advisory is in effect until 7 pm on Monday, 9 March 2026.

Met noted that although the intensity of the rains has slightly eased compared to the peak period between March 4-7, moderate to heavy rainfall will persist, with the potential to cause localised flooding.

The department noted that soils in the region remain saturated due to prolonged wet spells since late February.

In Nairobi County, widespread showers are forecast, with isolated heavier pockets expected in southern areas including Embakasi, Kibra, Makadara, Kamukunji, as well as parts of Roysambu, Westlands, Dagoretti, and Kasarani.

Residents in these neighbourhoods have been advised to take precautionary measures, especially in low-lying and flood-prone areas.

Meanwhile, Ministry of Health Kenya has issued a public health alert warning of a possible rise in water-borne and vector-borne diseases as heavy rains continue to pound several parts of the country.