Nairobi, Kenya – At least 23 people have died after overnight flash floods swept through Nairobi, Kenya’s capital, leaving widespread destruction and disrupting flights at the country’s main international airport.
Okay News reports that rescue workers have been searching floodwaters across the city after heavy rains washed away dozens of vehicles and damaged homes and businesses. Authorities said the flooding began overnight and quickly overwhelmed several parts of the city.
Kenyan President William Ruto announced that emergency responders, including soldiers, had been deployed to assist in rescue operations and support affected communities. He also directed that relief food from the country’s national strategic reserves be released immediately for families impacted by the disaster.
The severe rains also affected air travel, with Kenya Airways confirming that flights heading to Nairobi were disrupted, forcing some aircraft to divert to the coastal city of Mombasa.
Residents described chaotic scenes as floodwaters surged through streets. One local resident, Cedric Mwanza, said cars and belongings were swept away after water overflowed from the Nairobi River.
Scientists have warned that climate change is increasing the intensity of rainfall across East Africa, contributing to more frequent floods and droughts in the region.
