A series of devastating landslides triggered by relentless heavy rains has claimed at least 18 lives across Kenya, prompting a high-level warning from authorities as the weather crisis escalates. In a statement released on Sunday, May 3, 2026, the National Police Service (NPS) confirmed that the fatalities occurred in Tharaka Nithi, Elgeyo-Marakwet, and Kiambu counties.
The mudslides have cut a path of destruction through these regions, leveling homes, displacing hundreds of families, and crippling local infrastructure. Search and rescue teams remain on the ground, and officials warn that the death toll, which rose sharply from an initial report of 10, could still climb as they reach more remote affected areas.
“As the country continues to experience sustained and heavy rainfall, the National Police Service continues to call for heightened caution amid increasing disaster risks in several regions. Recent reports indicate that mudslides have occurred in Tharaka Nithi, Elgeyo-Marakwet, and Kiambu Counties, severely affecting multiple families, displacing households, and causing significant damage to property and infrastructure,” the NPS stated.
Government agencies have described the situation as dire, as persistent rainfall continues to saturate the ground, making further landslides almost inevitable in vulnerable areas. To manage the crisis, multi-agency emergency teams have been deployed to the hardest-hit counties, focusing on a four-pronged response:
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Search and Rescue: Actively locating missing persons and retrieving those trapped by mud and debris.
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Evacuation: Moving residents from high-risk zones to designated safe shelters.
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Relief Distribution: Providing essential supplies like food, water, and blankets to displaced families.
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Risk Assessment: Evaluating geological stability to prevent future casualties.
The National Police Service (NPS) has extended its warning to the entire country, urging citizens to avoid unnecessary travel during heavy downpours. They have specifically cautioned against the common but high-risk practice of attempting to cross flooded roads or swollen rivers, which has historically been a leading cause of preventable deaths during the rainy season.
To ensure a swift response to the ongoing crisis, authorities have established several 24-hour communication channels. Kenyans are urged to use these hotlines to report emergencies, coordinate rescues, or provide information on missing persons.
Emergency Reporting Channels
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Police Hotlines: 999 or 112 (Available 24/7)
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DCI Anonymous Tip Line: 0800 722 203 (#FichuaKwaDCI)
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Official WhatsApp Channel: 0709 570 000
With weather patterns remaining highly unpredictable, the risk level remains elevated. Heavy rainfall is forecast to persist over the coming days, significantly heightening the threat of flash floods and additional mudslides in saturated regions.
The National Police Service has emphasized that community cooperation is vital to minimizing further loss of life. By following evacuation orders and reporting risks early, residents can help response agencies navigate this unfolding national crisis more effectively.
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