The Kenya National Highways Authority has issued an urgent traffic advisory after flooding rendered the Kipsonoi River Bridge at Mugeni impassable, disrupting transport along a key highway linking the South Rift and Nyanza regions.
In a statement released on Saturday, the authority warned that the bridge, located along the busy Kaplong–Kisii (B6) Road between Sotik and Chebilat, has been overtopped by rising water levels following heavy rainfall upstream.
Bridge declared unsafe
KeNHA said the flooding has made the section unsafe for all motorable traffic, effectively cutting off movement along the critical corridor.
“The Kipsonoi River Bridge… has experienced flooding, rendering the section unsafe for motorable traffic,” the authority said in its advisory.
The agency attributed the situation to intense rainfall in upstream catchment areas, which triggered a significant rise in river levels and submerged the bridge.
Police officers and traffic marshals have since been deployed at the scene to control movement and prevent motorists from attempting to cross the flooded section.
Alternative routes issued
To minimise disruption, KeNHA has provided diversion routes for affected travellers.
Motorists heading towards Chebilat and Keroka have been advised to use the Kaplong–Sotik–Roret–Ikonge–Chebilat–Keroka route, while those travelling to Kisii should follow the Kaplong–Sotik–Roret–Ikonge–Kisii route.
The authority noted that the alternative routes are paved and safe for use, urging drivers to plan their journeys accordingly.
Traffic Advisory: Flooding at Kipsonoi River Bridge (Mugeni)
Safety warning to motorists
KeNHA has cautioned motorists against attempting to drive through the flooded bridge, warning that doing so could lead to serious accidents or loss of life.
Drivers have been urged to strictly follow instructions from officers on the ground and avoid unnecessary travel through the affected section.
“Motorists are strongly advised to exercise caution and strictly adhere to instructions issued by police officers and traffic marshals,” the authority said.
Heavy rains continue to disrupt transport
The latest disruption comes amid ongoing heavy rains affecting several parts of the country, leading to rising river levels and widespread transport challenges.
The Kaplong–Kisii road is a vital economic link used by traders, farmers and transporters moving goods between counties, meaning the closure is expected to have a ripple effect on regional commerce.
KeNHA said it is closely monitoring the situation and will provide updates as conditions evolve.
For now, motorists are advised to exercise patience and prioritise safety as authorities work to manage the flooding crisis.
