Flooding disrupts traffic on Mombasa Road, motorists urged to seek alternative routes

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

According to an update shared on X and a security advisory, the situation has been worsened by a submerged lorry near City Cabanas.

Motorists have now been urged to avoid the busy highway and seek alternative routes, including using the Expressway which according to the advisory, is open as an alternative.

“A submerged lorry near City Cabanas (due to severe flooding). Videos circulating online showed heavy traffic with stalled vehicles, which were partly submerged. Risks: Major traffic buildup stretching from the CBD to Athi River,” read part of the advisory.

“Avoid Mombasa Road and use the Nairobi Expressway (currently open for free access) as an alternative,” the advisory added.

Meanwhile, the Kenya Red Cross Society confirmed the flooding along Mombasa Road and has also reported rising water levels and multiple flooding incidents across the city and its outskirts.

“Following heavy downpour, 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. Kenya Red Cross Nairobi teams are en route for assessment and possible response,” the agency said.

Flash floods were also reported near T-Mall along Lang’ata Road, where a vehicle was trapped in a ditch with occupants inside, though all were successfully evacuated.

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

“Flash floods have also been reported in Moyale, Marsabit County. We remain on standby for possible search and rescue operations,” the Red Cross added.

Authorities say they are monitoring the situation as emergency teams remain on high alert amid ongoing rains.