At least 42 people killed in days of floods across Kenya

"At least 42 people have been killed in days of floods across Kenya, the government has said. Heavy rains have triggered flash floods across several regions of the country since Friday. Kenya's Public Service and Special Programmes Minister Geoffrey Ruku told reporters on Sunday that police had documented 42 deaths since then, including 26 in the capital, Nairobi."

"In Nairobi, floodwaters swept through low-lying neighbourhoods and informal settlements, submerging homes and carrying away vehicles as rivers overflowed their banks. Kenya Airways also said the rains had disrupted flights to Nairobi and forced some to divert to the coastal city of Mombasa."

"I have also ordered that relief food from our national strategic reserves be immediately released and distributed to families affected by the floods. In addition, the Government will meet the hospital bills of those injured or affected by the flooding and currently receiving treatment in public health facilities."

Kenya experienced severe flooding following heavy rains that began Friday, resulting in at least 42 deaths across multiple counties, with 26 fatalities in Nairobi. Floodwaters submerged homes in low-lying neighborhoods and informal settlements, swept away vehicles, and caused rivers to overflow their banks. The disaster disrupted transportation, including Kenya Airways flights diverted to Mombasa, and caused extensive infrastructure damage affecting livelihoods. President William Ruto deployed emergency responders including soldiers for rescue operations and announced government support including relief food distribution and coverage of hospital bills for injured persons in public facilities. Authorities emphasized the need for lasting solutions to address recurring urban flooding challenges.

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