Kenya Red Cross issues safety tips as flooding threat persists
As heavy rains continue to pound Nairobi and several parts of the country, the Kenya Red Cross has issued fresh safety guidelines urging residents to stay alert and take precautions to avoid flood-related accidents.
In a public advisory shared on Saturday, March 7, 2026, the humanitarian organisation warned that even small amounts of moving water can be dangerous, especially in urban areas where drainage systems are easily overwhelmed.
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“Evacuate immediately to elevated areas in case of flooding,” the Kenya Red Cross said in the advisory.
The organisation also warned residents to switch off electricity in flooded houses to avoid electrocution.
“Switch off electricity at the main switch if the house is flooded,” the statement read.
According to the agency, people often underestimate the power of floodwaters. What may look like a harmless puddle can quickly turn into a dangerous current.
“Just 6 inches of moving water can knock you down,” the organisation cautioned.
Motorists were also urged to be extremely careful while driving during the ongoing rains.
“Avoid parking, driving or conducting activities along streams or rivers during floods. One foot of moving water can sweep your vehicle away,” the Kenya Red Cross stated.
For residents walking through flooded areas, the organisation advised using a stick to test the depth of water and avoiding muddy areas where power lines may have fallen.
“Avoid downed power lines and muddy waters where power lines may have fallen. In flooded areas, use a stick to test depth. Do not drive over a bridge that is flooded,” the organisation added.
Flooded city
The advisory comes as Nairobi and several counties across Kenya are experiencing heavy rainfall linked to the onset of the March–April–May long rains.
Over the past few days, intense downpours have turned several streets in Nairobi into temporary rivers, leaving commuters stranded and vehicles stalled in floodwaters. In some parts of the Central Business District, residents were seen wading through ankle-to-knee-deep water as they tried to move around the city.
Major roads have also experienced severe traffic snarl-ups as flooded sections forced motorists to slow down or abandon their vehicles altogether. Some commuters reportedly spent hours stuck in traffic as waterlogged roads brought movement in parts of the city to a near standstill.
The rains have not only affected Nairobi. Across the country, flash floods linked to the ongoing wet season have already claimed at least four lives and displaced more than 300 households.
Weather experts say the situation may persist for several days. The Kenya Meteorological Department has warned that heavy rainfall exceeding 20 millimetres within 24 hours could continue in many parts of the country until early next week, raising the risk of flash floods and poor visibility on roads.
In Nairobi and neighbouring counties such as Kiambu, Machakos and Kajiado, residents have been advised to remain vigilant as the rains are expected to peak between March 4 and March 7 before gradually easing.
