Nairobi is experiencing widespread flooding after heavy rainfall, causing severe traffic congestion and leaving commuters stranded across key parts of the city. Streets near Uhuru Park, Mombasa Road, Parklands, and Mbagathi Way are among the worst affected, with water levels rising rapidly and making movement difficult for pedestrians and motorists.
In low-lying areas, residents are wading through ankle-to-knee-deep water, attempting to navigate flooded streets. Several vehicles are forced to stop mid-route, while public transport operators struggle to reach passengers.
Many commuters are reporting being stuck in traffic jams for hours, unable to move due to waterlogged roads and stalled vehicles.The Kenya Meteorological Department has issued a warning that the heavy rainfall, exceeding 20mm in 24 hours, is expected to continue across several parts of the country from March 3-9, 2026.
Rainfall is forecasted to intensify and peak between March 4-7 before reducing in most areas by March 8.Affected Areas:- Uhuru Park: Sections near the park are submerged, with water accumulating around road drains.- Mombasa Road: Water accumulation is causing long delays for buses and matatus.- Parklands: Residents are forced to find alternative routes to bypass flooded streets.- Mbagathi Way: Sporadic flash floods are stranding motorists and slowing emergency services.
Safety Advisory:
Authorities are warning residents to remain alert to potential floods, flash floods, and poor visibility. People are urged to avoid driving or walking through moving water or open fields and to refrain from taking shelter under trees or near grilled windows to reduce the risk of lightning strikes.
Government Response:
The Kenya Urban Roads Authority (KURA) has deployed technical teams to direct traffic and ensure safety. The Kenya Red Cross is also providing assistance to affected families ¹ ².
The city’s drainage system is being overwhelmed, with Governor Johnson Sakaja acknowledging that it was not designed to handle heavy, prolonged rainfall.
The county government has allocated funds to improve drainage in flood-prone areas and deployed a 3,800-strong youth team to clear garbage and unblock drains .
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