Floods and landslides leave 18 dead, over 60 missing across Kenya
Flooding and landslides triggered by persistent rainfall in Kenya have affected at least 39 counties as of May 3, 2026, leaving 18 people dead and more than 60 missing. Nearly 55 000 households and 34 schools have been affected by the flooding that has destroyed approximately 8 100 ha (20 000 acres) of crops. Rivers overflowed across multiple regions, while landslides in Tharaka Nithi, Elgeyo-Marakwet, and Kiambu counties displaced households and damaged infrastructure.
The National Police Service (NPS) in Kenya reported that, as of May 3, at least 18 people have died due to heavy rains, flooding, and landslides that have been affecting much of the country since April 21.
Multiple rivers have overflowed due to rainfall affecting multiple regions and counties, including Tana River, according to EU ERCC.
“Recent reports indicate that mudslides have occurred in Tharaka Nithi, Elgeyo-Marakwet, and Kiambu counties, severely affecting multiple families, displacing households, and causing significant damage to property and infrastructure,” said the NPS.
Flooding has been affecting multiple counties and regions, including Tana River, Mombasa, Kwale, Tharaka Nithi, Elgeyo-Marakwet, Kiambu, Eastern, Central, Coast, Nairobi, and Rift Valley.
Among the 18 fatalities, nine were in the Eastern region, three in the Central region, and two each in the Coast, Nairobi, and Rift Valley regions. Meanwhile, over 60 people remain missing.
Citizen TV Kenya reported that at least 39 counties have been struck by floods, affecting nearly 55 000 households and 34 schools. Approximately 8 100 ha (20 000 acres) of crops have been destroyed, while nine healthcare facilities were flooded and 17 roads remain cut off.
Multiple agencies continue search and rescue operations, evacuating at-risk residents, providing emergency relief supplies, and assessing high-risk zones to prevent further loss of life.
Homes and infrastructure in the affected areas have suffered significant damage and destruction; however, these damages have yet to be fully surveyed.
“The public is strongly advised to remain vigilant and take precautionary measures, particularly those living in landslide-prone or flood-affected areas,” warned the NPS.
Feature image credit: Manna Ministries International
I am an Assistant Editor and Severe Weather & Science Journalist at The Watchers, specializing in real-time severe weather coverage, geophysical event reporting, and research-driven scientific analysis. You can reach me at rishav(at)watchers(.)news.
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