By Our Correspondent

Heavy rains and severe flooding have claimed at least 23 lives in Nairobi, Kenya, after overnight downpours caused widespread chaos across the city.

The torrential rainfall led to rivers bursting their banks, sweeping vehicles away and leaving many residents stranded in dangerous floodwaters.

Police and emergency teams report that around 30 people were rescued, but several others drowned or suffered fatal electrocutions as floodwaters surged through residential and commercial areas.

The Kenya Defence Forces have been deployed to assist stranded motorists and pedestrians, while police warn of extensive property damage and major road closures.

Key thoroughfares including Mombasa Road, Uhuru Highway, Kirinyaga Road, and parts of the Westlands district remain submerged.

Stalled vehicles and fast-moving water created severe traffic congestion during the evening rush hour, with many commuters left unable to reach their destinations.

Flights to Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport were disrupted, with several flights either canceled or redirected to Mombasa due to poor visibility and unsafe conditions.

Authorities have urged residents to avoid flooded streets and drainage channels while emergency responders continue rescue operations.

The Kenya Meteorological Department has forecast 30–70mm of rainfall in Nairobi and surrounding counties over the coming days.

River levels are expected to rise through 9 March, with continued heavy rain raising the risk of urban flooding, landslides, and property damage.

Regions including the Central Highlands, Lake Victoria Basin, and coastal areas remain under heightened alert as authorities prepare for potential further flooding.

Eyewitnesses described harrowing scenes as cars were swept away and residents struggled to stay safe amid rising waters.

Security guard John Lomayan recounted seeing someone trapped beneath a car washed away by the Nairobi River in the Grogan industrial area.

“We didn’t know where he had gone. It is only now that we see him under the car,” he said.

This latest disaster follows a series of deadly floods in Kenya last year, which claimed hundreds of lives and caused widespread displacement across the country and neighboring Tanzania.

Authorities continue to coordinate rescue operations and urge vigilance as the region braces for more rain in the coming days.