The death toll from ongoing flooding and landslides across Kenya has risen to 18, according to the National Police Service, as torrential rainfall continues to batter several parts of the country during the peak of the March-to-May long rains season.
Authorities said the fatalities were primarily recorded in the counties of Tharaka Nithi County, Elgeyo-Marakwet County, and Kiambu County, where heavy rains triggered deadly landslides and widespread flooding over recent days.
The severe weather has caused extensive destruction to homes, roads, and other critical infrastructure, while forcing numerous families to flee their residences in affected communities. Emergency officials warned that continued rainfall could worsen conditions in vulnerable regions already saturated by persistent downpours.
In response to the crisis, Kenyan authorities have deployed multi-agency rescue and emergency response teams to the hardest-hit areas. Rescue personnel are conducting search-and-rescue missions, evacuating residents from high-risk zones, and distributing emergency relief supplies to displaced households.
The National Police Service urged citizens to remain vigilant and comply with safety directives issued by local authorities. Residents living in flood-prone and landslide-risk areas were specifically advised to avoid swollen rivers, flooded roads, and unstable hillsides, and to immediately follow evacuation orders where issued.
Government agencies and disaster response teams continue to monitor weather patterns and assess the extent of the damage nationwide. Officials cautioned that the number of casualties could rise further as rescue operations continue and additional reports emerge from remote or inaccessible areas.
Kenya frequently experiences severe flooding during the annual long rains season, which typically runs from March through May. Meteorological authorities have warned that above-average rainfall this year could heighten the risk of further flooding and landslides across several regions of the country.
