At least 10 people were killed and dozens of vehicles were swept away after widespread flooding hit Kenya’s capital, Nairobi, following heavy rains that caused rivers to overflow and submerged major roads.

Nairobi regional police commander George Seda confirmed the deaths at a press conference on Saturday, warning that the toll could rise as several people remain missing.

Authorities said floodwaters inundated parts of the city overnight, trapping motorists and forcing residents in some areas to wade or swim through the water to safety.

Police said at least 71 vehicles were swept away as floodwaters inundated low-lying areas of the city, making roads impassable and paralyzing traffic in several neighbourhoods.

Many homes and businesses were also submerged, as drainage systems were overwhelmed by the heavy rains.
Minister for Public Services and Special Programs Geoffrey Ruku said over the weekend that he had convened a high-level emergency meeting to coordinate the government’s response to the disaster and consider measures to help affected residents.