23 dead, military deployed after heavy rains hit Kenya's capital

At least 23 people have died, while 29 others have been rescued following heavy overnight rains that triggered severe flooding in Nairobi, Kenya, authorities said on Saturday, as emergency teams continued search and rescue operations across the city.

Police said eight bodies had been recovered, including two victims who were electrocuted, while others were swept away by fast-moving floodwaters. Several bodies were later found along riverbanks and drainage channels.

Nairobi police commander George Seda earlier warned the death toll could rise as rescue teams continued searching for missing people. He said operations were hampered by widespread flooding that left many roads and estates inaccessible.

The downpour also caused significant property damage, with more than 100 vehicles damaged. Some motorists were forced to abandon cars and wade through waist-deep water to reach higher ground.

Air travel was also affected, as the national carrier, Kenya Airways, said several flights were disrupted, with some diverted to Mombasa, warning that delays could continue for several hours.

Kenyan President William Ruto on Saturday expressed condolences to families who lost loved ones in the floods that have hit parts of the country and directed the immediate deployment of a multi-agency emergency response team. The team will coordinate rescue efforts, support affected communities, and ensure that those in danger are moved to safer locations, according to his statement.

Ruto also ordered the immediate release of relief food from the country's national strategic reserves to support families affected by the disaster. In addition, the government said it would cover hospital bills for those injured or impacted by the flooding who are currently receiving treatment in public health facilities.

Emergency response teams from the Kenya Red Cross were deployed but struggled to reach stranded residents due to blocked roads and heavy traffic. Secretary-General Ahmed Idris said teams were working to assist those affected despite the difficult conditions.

Some Nairobi residents blamed the flooding on clogged drainage systems, saying authorities should have ensured proper drainage infrastructure ahead of the rainy season.

Edited by CGTN's Nyawira Mwangi