NAIROBI, Kenya- Widespread flooding has been reported across parts of Kenya after the River Nyando burst its banks, triggering a humanitarian response in Kisumu County and affecting other regions, including Tana River County and Uasin Gishu County.
Authorities say at least 265 households have been displaced, while six children separated from their parents are among those rescued and currently sheltered in designated safe centres in Ahero.
Rescue Operations Underway in Kisumu
According to officials, those displaced in Kisumu are being housed at the Ahero Assistant County Commissioner’s office, Ahero Catholic Pastoral Centre, and Ombaka Dispensary.
The flooding followed rising water levels along the River Nyando, which has overflowed across several low-lying areas, submerging homes and cutting off key transport routes.
Government statements indicate that areas worst affected include Kakola, Onjiko, Kochogo, East Kano, Okanja, Kamidumbi and Panadol, as well as parts of Ombaka and surrounding stream catchments.
The situation has also disrupted transport, with the Ahero Bridge along the Kisumu–Awasi–Kericho road flooded, prompting authorities to issue warnings to motorists and advise the use of alternative routes.
Flooding Spreads to Other Counties
The crisis is not limited to Kisumu. In Tana River County, the Tana River has also overflowed, flooding farms in areas such as Mbalambala, raising concerns over crop destruction and food security.
Meanwhile, in Uasin Gishu County, flooding along the River Sosiani has affected residential homes and hospitality facilities, highlighting the widespread impact of the ongoing heavy rains.
River Nyando has burst its banks, causing widespread flooding across parts of Kisumu County. So far, 265 households and six children without their parents were rescued and currently sheltered at the compounds of the office of the Ahero Assistant County Commissioner, Ahero
Rising Water Levels and National Concern
Emergency agencies, including the Kenya Red Cross, have described the situation as serious, warning that rivers across the country remain swollen and could continue to rise following sustained rainfall.
The flooding forms part of a broader pattern of extreme weather that has affected multiple counties in recent weeks, driven by heavy seasonal rains that often cause rivers to overflow, particularly in low-lying and flood-prone areas.
Experts note that regions such as the Nyando plains are especially vulnerable due to their geography, with flooding a recurring challenge during rainy seasons.
Displacement and Risk of Further Damage
Beyond the immediate displacement, officials warn of further risks, including:
- Damage to infrastructure and roads
- Loss of crops and livelihoods
- Increased risk of waterborne diseases
Across Kenya, recent floods have already affected thousands of households and caused fatalities, underlining the growing impact of climate-related disasters.
Authorities are urging residents in flood-prone areas to move to higher ground, avoid crossing flooded roads and rivers, and heed safety advisories as the rains continue.
With forecasts indicating the possibility of more rainfall, emergency teams remain on high alert as efforts continue to rescue stranded residents and provide shelter to those displaced.
