Floods ravage parts of Kisumu, Tana River and Uasin Gishu as death toll rises to 84

Severe flooding hit several parts of Kenya, with rivers bursting their banks in Kisumu County, Tana River County, and Uasin Gishu County, triggering widespread destruction, displacement, and rescue operations.

In Kisumu County, River Nyando has overflowed following a sharp rise in water levels, spilling into surrounding villages and farmlands. The worst-hit areas include Kakola, Onjiko, Kochogo, East Kano, Okanja, Kamidumbi and Panadol, as well as low-lying parts of Kakola Ombaka Sub-Location.

Communities living near streams such as Awach, Agala, Nyalbiego, Chamrogi and Nyaidho are also facing heightened flood risk as waters continue to surge.

Emergency response teams from the Kenya Coast Guard Service and the Kenya Red Cross Society, alongside the Kisumu County disaster management unit, are actively conducting rescue operations. National Government Administrative Officers have also intensified monitoring efforts in affected zones.

So far, at least 265 households have been evacuated, including six children found unaccompanied. The displaced are currently sheltering at safe locations such as the Assistant County Commissioner’s office in Ahero, Ahero Catholic Pastoral Centre and Ombaka Dispensary.

Field reports indicate that river levels are rising rapidly, with strong currents sweeping across Awasi, Onjiko, Kochogo and Kakola, raising fears of flash floods. While some flooding in Magina Sub-Location has been contained within dykes, authorities warn that weakened sections along both eastern and western dykes could give way under pressure.

There are also concerns that continued heavy rainfall upstream could worsen flooding in Okanja, Kamidumbi, Panadol and areas around Ahero Girls, Kakola Ombaka, and sections of the Kisumu–Nairobi road.

Residents have been urged to remain vigilant and move to higher ground where necessary, as multi-agency emergency teams remain on high alert.

Meanwhile, in Tana River County, River Tana has also burst its banks, inundating farms in Asako Village within Mbalambala Location. The flooding has disrupted livelihoods in the agriculturally rich area, with fears of further losses if rains persist.

In Uasin Gishu County, authorities are assessing flood impacts along River Sosiani in Lower Elgon View, Racecourse Location. Preliminary findings indicate that several residential homes and hospitality facilities have experienced flooding, particularly in their compounds and surrounding areas.

The ongoing floods have compounded a national crisis, with the death toll now standing at 84, while three people remain missing.

Authorities continue to urge the public to exercise caution, avoid flooded areas and heed evacuation advisories as rainfall persists across many regions.