A matatu was this morning swept away by floodwaters while trying to cross the Basilinga River in Samburu at approximately 11:45 am on Tuesday.
The Kenya Red Cross confirmed that all 14 passengers on board are safe and accounted for, although the vehicle remains stranded in the river.
This incident has disrupted transport along the route, leaving vehicles and passengers stranded on either side as they await the water levels to recede, according to the Kenya Red Cross.
Authorities have not provided a timeline for when normal movement will resume, as rising water levels continue to hinder accessibility in the area.
This event occurs amid ongoing heavy rains across several parts of the country, causing rivers to swell and making some roads impassable.
The situation is part of a broader flood crisis impacting multiple regions, with authorities reporting an increasing number of fatalities and widespread disruption.
The death toll from the ongoing floods in Kenya has risen to 108, as confirmed by the National Police Service (NPS), while multi-agency teams remain on high alert to address the crisis.
In an update issued on March 28, 2026, the NPS reported five additional fatalities, including two in the Western Region, two in the North Eastern Region, and one in the Rift Valley.
These figures follow a day after authorities reported 103 flood-related deaths, highlighting the escalating impact of the disaster nationwide.
The NPS stated it is collaborating closely with emergency and disaster response agencies to manage the situation. Ground teams are actively engaged in evacuation efforts and interventions aimed at safeguarding lives and property in affected areas.
“The National Police Service, in partnership with emergency and disaster response agencies, remains fully deployed and on high alert to mitigate the effects of ongoing flooding,” the statement noted.
While rainfall has lessened in some regions, authorities cautioned that the threat of flooding remains significant due to saturated ground and overflowing drainage systems, which continue to pose risks even where rains have diminished.
The public is urged to stay vigilant, especially in flood-prone and previously affected areas. The NPS emphasized the importance of cooperation between residents and emergency personnel in ensuring safety.
“The public should fully cooperate with officers and emergency personnel on the ground, as coordinated efforts are essential for ensuring safety,” the statement added.
These floods have disrupted daily life in various parts of the country and heightened the risk of secondary hazards, including road accidents. Motorists are advised to exercise extra caution, particularly during periods of reduced visibility and on waterlogged roads.
Earlier, the NPS advised that “residents in flood-prone and low-lying areas should remain particularly alert, follow official advisories closely, and be prepared to take timely action, including evacuation if necessary.”
The crisis has also led to significant displacement, with at least 2,795 households affected as of March 27, forcing more families to leave their homes due to rising water levels.
Authorities stress that the situation requires ongoing awareness and a coordinated response from both the public and relevant agencies.
“The increasing frequency and intensity of adverse weather across various regions necessitate sustained awareness and a coordinated response from the public and responsible agencies,” the NPS stated.
Emergency assistance remains available 24/7 through designated channels, as officials continue to monitor the situation and respond to emerging incidents.
