Police on floods: 49 dead, over 2,600 families displaced across Kenya

Death toll rises to 49 as floods hit several counties

At least 49 people have died and 2,624 families displaced following heavy rains and flooding that have affected several parts of the country. Officials said Nairobi is among the hardest hit areas.

The National Police Service (NPS) Spokesman Michael Muchiri said they are working alongside other multi-agency emergency teams to respond to the crisis through search and rescue operations, evacuations of residents in high-risk areas, and security support.

The police said the devastating rains that began Friday, March 6, 2026, have caused widespread destruction, with infrastructure and property damaged in multiple regions.

According to Muchiri, the floods have also affected 16 police stations, posing operational challenges, although authorities are working to ensure policing services continue uninterrupted.

“Following the devastating rains on Friday, 6th March 2026, 49 people have unfortunately lost their lives nationwide as a result of the flooding,” Muchiri said while conveying the service’s condolences to families and friends who lost loved ones.

Emergency teams remain on the ground carrying out rescue missions and assisting affected communities, particularly in vulnerable areas prone to flooding. Authorities have urged members of the public to exercise extreme caution as the heavy rains persist and to follow weather updates and safety advisories issued by the Kenya Meteorological Department and other government agencies.

Residents were also advised to report emergencies, distress situations or criminal activity through the toll-free numbers 999, 911, and 112, or via the #FichuaKwaDCI hotline on 0800 722 203 and WhatsApp 0709 570 000.

President William Ruto ordered the immediate deployment of a multi-agency emergency response team to support rescue and relief operations following the devastating floods that have hit parts of Nairobi and other regions across the country.

The team, led by the Ministry of Interior and National Administration, will work alongside the Kenya Defence Forces and other emergency agencies to intensify rescue operations.

Authorities said the team will coordinate evacuations, assist affected communities, and move residents living in danger zones to safer areas.

The president also directed the immediate release of relief food from national strategic reserves to assist families affected by the floods.

In addition, the government will cover hospital bills for victims injured during the flooding who are currently receiving treatment in public health facilities, while emergency humanitarian assistance will be provided to displaced families.