By Andrew Kariuki

Motorists have been warned of heavy traffic along Mombasa Road following flooding triggered by overnight rainfall in several parts of Nairobi.

In an advisory shared on X, authorities indicated that the situation had been worsened by a lorry that was partially submerged near City Cabanas, significantly disrupting traffic flow along the busy highway.

“A submerged lorry near City Cabanas due to severe flooding has led to major traffic buildup stretching from the CBD to Athi River,” the advisory stated.

Motorists have been urged to avoid Mombasa Road and instead use alternative routes, including the Nairobi Expressway, which has been opened to ease congestion.

Meanwhile, the Kenya Red Cross Society confirmed widespread flooding incidents across Nairobi and its surrounding areas, citing rising water levels following the heavy downpour.

“Following heavy rainfall, rising water levels have been reported along Mombasa Road (Eastern Bypass), resulting in flooding. In Mukuru kwa Njenga, there are unconfirmed reports of missing persons and marooned households,” the agency said, adding that response teams had been deployed for assessment and possible rescue operations.

Flash floods were also reported near T-Mall along Lang’ata Road, where a vehicle was trapped in a ditch with occupants inside. All occupants were later rescued.

In Kajiado County, flooding from the swollen Kandisi River along Magadi Road left three individuals stranded in a lorry before they were successfully rescued.

The Red Cross further reported flooding incidents in Moyale, Marsabit County, with teams on standby for possible search and rescue operations.

Authorities say they continue to monitor the situation closely, with emergency teams on high alert as rainfall persists.