Kenyan landslide death toll rises to 26 as flash floods halt rescue operations

The death toll from a massive landslide in western Kenya’s Elgeyo Marakwet County has climbed to 26 after rescuers recovered four more bodies on Sunday, before operations were halted due to sudden flash floods.

Interior Minister Kipchumba Murkomen said 25 people remain missing and confirmed that military aircraft have been deployed to assist search teams in reaching remote areas cut off by the disaster. The landslide struck the hilly Chesongoch area on Saturday, destroying more than 1,000 homes and washing away key roads.

Rescue teams were forced to suspend operations Sunday afternoon as heavy rains triggered renewed flooding, complicating access to affected villages. The government has begun airlifting food, medical supplies, and national examination papers to isolated schools and communities.

“It is very sad that families have lost five to six immediate family members,” Murkomen said, adding that medical bills for the more than 30 injured would be covered by the government.

Kenya Red Cross officials warned that the area remains unstable and vulnerable to further landslides.

“It’s still an active incident, and we urge community members to move to safer grounds for their safety and livelihoods,” said regional manager Oscar Okum.

Heavy rains continue to sweep across Kenya, displacing thousands and prompting renewed warnings for residents in flood-prone regions to relocate.

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