A dam collapse in southern Kenya has led to the tragic loss of at least 35 lives, with many more individuals still unaccounted for, following weeks of intense rainfall causing severe flooding and destruction in the region.

Rescue operations are underway near Mai Mahiu, Nakuru County, where homes and vehicles were swept away by floodwaters. Governor Susan Kihika expressed concern that the death toll may significantly rise as search efforts continue.

The disaster occurred amidst widespread flooding across Kenya, which has claimed the lives of over 100 people and displaced thousands since March, according to government reports.

Governor Kihika described the situation in Mai Mahiu as dire, with floodwaters carrying away people and houses. Access to the area has been challenging due to road closures from heavy rains, complicating rescue efforts.

The Kenya Red Cross Society reported that several individuals were hospitalized due to flash floods in Kamuchiri village, believed to have originated from a nearby river that overflowed.

The flooding crisis in Kenya has been exacerbated by the combined effects of the El Niño climate pattern and ongoing heavy rains since November 2023, affecting over 131,450 people across the country.

In Nairobi, devastating scenes show residents stranded on rooftops and salvaging belongings from destroyed homes. The Tana River area is also severely affected, with roads and buildings submerged underwater.

Due to the challenging conditions, the Ministry of Education has postponed the start of the new school term by one week until May 6.

The Kenya Red Cross Society reported a separate incident where a boat capsized in Tana River County, resulting in multiple rescues and others still missing.

East Africa has similarly been impacted by heavy rains, with Tanzania and Burundi also experiencing significant flooding. Tanzanian Prime Minister Kassim Majaliwa confirmed at least 155 deaths due to flooding in his country.