What is the location of the flooding?
As of March 10, 2026, Nairobi, in south-central Kenya, has been experiencing significant flooding following continuous heavy rainfall that began on March 6.
The flooding has impacted areas surrounding major waterways and drainage systems within the city, including regions near the Nairobi River and other urban water channels. Overflowing stormwater systems and riverbanks have led to widespread urban flooding, damaging infrastructure, homes, and vehicles. (1)
Flooding has also been reported in parts of southwestern Kenya, including areas near the Mara River and Talek River within and around the Maasai Mara National Reserve, where rising water levels forced the evacuation of tourists and camp staff. (2)
Which cities or areas are affected by the flooding?
The flooding has impacted several regions across Kenya, particularly urban and low-lying areas vulnerable to stormwater overflow and river flooding.
The following areas are affected:
- Homa Bay
- Maasai Mara National Reserve
- Nairobi
In Nairobi, floodwaters submerged roads, damaged vehicles, and disrupted transportation including operations at the city’s main airport. Several neighborhoods experienced severe water accumulation as drainage systems struggled to manage the heavy rainfall. (3)
In the Maasai Mara National Reserve, rivers burst their banks and flooded nearby tourist camps, prompting evacuations.
In Homa Bay County, rural communities such as Konyango Village have also reported displacement due to rising floodwaters.
What is the current containment status of the flooding?
As of March 10, 2026, the flooding in Kenya remains uncontained as emergency responders continue search and rescue operations across affected regions.
Authorities have confirmed at least 42 fatalities linked to the floods, while rescue teams including the military and multiple emergency agencies are still searching for victims and assisting stranded residents. (4)
Floodwaters have also caused extensive infrastructure damage and disrupted transportation networks. Officials report that hundreds of families have been displaced and numerous vehicles were swept away by strong currents. Continued rainfall and thunderstorms are forecast in parts of Nairobi and southeastern Kenya, which could worsen conditions in the coming days.
Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place?
Emergency response agencies and government authorities have issued safety alerts and coordinated evacuations in several affected areas.
- Tourists and camp staff were evacuated from the Maasai Mara National Reserve after the Mara River and Talek River overflowed.
- Military units and the Kenya Red Cross have been deployed to support rescue operations and assist stranded residents.
- Authorities have urged residents to remain cautious and prioritize safety due to ongoing rainfall and potential additional flooding.
Government officials have also begun distributing relief supplies from national reserves to support families displaced by the floods. Emergency teams continue to monitor water levels and assist affected communities while recovery operations remain underway. (5)
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How can I protect myself from mold after flooding?
It’s important to take steps to prevent mold after a flood.
- Before entering a flooded area, make sure it is safe and free from electrical hazards or structural damage.
- Use protective gear: wear gloves, goggles, and a KN95/FFP2 mask to minimize exposure to mold spores.
- If there is still standing water, remove it as quickly as possible. Use pumps, wet-dry vacuums, or buckets to extract the water.
- Open windows and doors to facilitate air circulation and use fans, dehumidifiers, and HVAC systems to help dry the space. This step is crucial within the first 24-48 hours after flooding to prevent mold growth.
- Remove and discard any items that have been severely damaged by floodwater and cannot be thoroughly cleaned and dried. This includes carpets, upholstered furniture, mattresses, and any other porous materials.
- Thoroughly clean all hard surfaces with a detergent or cleaner suitable for mold remediation. Use a solution of 1.5 cups of bleach mixed with one gallon of water to disinfect nonporous surfaces. Never mix bleach with ammonia or other cleaning products, as the fumes are toxic.
- Maintain an indoor relative humidity (RH) of 35-50%. High humidity promotes mold growth, so consider using dehumidifiers in damp areas.
- Run a high-performance air purifier for mold, both during and after the mold removal work.
- If the flooding and mold damage are extensive, consider contacting professionals specializing in mold remediation to ensure proper cleanup and restoration.
Remember, mold can pose health risks, so it's important to take these steps promptly and thoroughly. If you experience persistent mold-related health issues or have concerns about extensive mold growth, consult with a medical professional or a mold remediation specialist.
