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14-year-old boy swept away by overflowing Nairobi River
28th February, 2026 04:15 PM
Kenya Red Cross has confirmed that a 14-year-old boy was swept away by the overflowing Nairobi River at Nyayo Highrise along Mbagathi Way.
In a statement on X on Saturday, February 28, 2026, the incident occurred late on Friday, February 27, 2026, at approximately 10:56 pm, prompting immediate search and retrieval operations led by the Kenya Red Cross Aqua Team in collaboration with other response agencies.
“Search and retrieval operations are ongoing today,” the Red Cross said, noting that efforts are focused on locating the boy safely.
The Kenya Red Cross emphasised that the operation is being conducted with full coordination from local authorities.
“Search and retrieval operations are ongoing today, led by the Kenya Red Cross Aqua Team in collaboration with other response agencies,” the organisation added.
The incident comes as heavy rains continue to affect large parts of the country. The Kenya Meteorological Department has warned residents in 41 counties to remain vigilant amid ongoing rainfall that could trigger floods and flash floods.
In an advisory issued on February 25, 2026, the department said, “areas that experience rainfall exceeding 20 mm within 24 hours are likely to continue receiving heavy downpours through February 28, 2026, with some regions expected to continue receiving rainfall until March 3, 2026.”
Counties on high alert
The weather authorities indicated that while rainfall intensity is expected to decrease by March 1, 2026, in the southeastern lowlands, heavy rains will continue in the coastal region and the highlands east of the Rift Valley, including Nairobi.
Counties of concern include Migori, Nyamira, Bungoma, Busia, Kakamega, Vihiga, West Pokot, Baringo, Elgeyo Marakwet, Trans Nzoia, Nandi, Uasin Gishu, Nakuru, Siaya, Kisumu, Homa Bay, Kisii, Kericho, Bomet, Kiambu, Embu, Murang’a, Kirinyaga, Nyandarua, Nyeri, Laikipia, Tharaka-Nithi, Meru, Nairobi, Narok, Kajiado, Makueni, Machakos, Taita-Taveta, Kitui, Kwale, Mombasa, Tana River, Kilifi, and parts of Isiolo, Marsabit, and Garissa.
Officials urged communities in these counties to take precautions and avoid areas prone to flooding.
“Residents should remain vigilant and follow official guidance as the rains continue,” the Kenya Meteorological Department said.
Residents have been cautioned that floodwaters may occur even in areas that have not received heavy rainfall, particularly downstream.
