Transport along the busy Nairobi–Mombasa Highway was temporarily paralysed after River Sultan Hamud burst its banks following heavy rainfall experienced overnight in the area.
The flooding left sections of the highway submerged, forcing motorists to stop as water flowed across the road, making it impossible for vehicles to pass safely.
Drivers travelling between Nairobi and Mombasa were stranded for hours as traffic built up on both sides of the flooded section.
Witnesses said the river began swelling late in the night after persistent rainfall in the surrounding areas, eventually overflowing onto the highway and disrupting transport early in the morning.
Long queues of trucks, buses, and private vehicles formed as drivers waited for water levels to reduce before attempting to continue with their journeys.
Some motorists were forced to turn back while others remained parked along the roadside, hoping the flooding would subside and allow traffic to resume.
Local residents gathered near the scene to observe the situation as fast-moving water cut across the highway, creating a dangerous crossing point for motorists.
Authorities warned drivers against attempting to force their way through the flooded section, noting that the strong currents could easily sweep away vehicles.
Traffic police officers were deployed to the area to control movement and ensure motorists kept a safe distance from the flooded zone.
The Kenya National Highways Authority said teams were monitoring the situation and assessing the level of damage caused by the flooding.
Officials urged motorists travelling along the route to remain patient and follow instructions from traffic officers managing the situation.
The highway is one of the country’s most important transport corridors, linking the capital city to the coastal region and serving thousands of vehicles daily.
Disruptions along the road often have major economic effects as cargo trucks transporting goods to and from the Port of Mombasa rely heavily on the route.
Authorities also advised travellers to monitor weather updates and consider alternative travel plans as heavy rainfall continues to affect several parts of the country.
Emergency teams remained on standby as efforts continued to restore normal traffic flow once water levels recede and the road becomes safe for use again.
