Villages Cut Off as Tana Floods Worsen, Red Cross Warns of Rising Risk

May 23, 2026 - Fresh flooding along the River Tana has cut off villages in Tana River and Lamu counties, with the Kenya Red Cross warning that thousands of residents remain at risk as water levels continue to rise.

The humanitarian agency said water levels at Idsowe Bridge remain high at 5.5 metres, increasing pressure downstream and worsening flooding in low-lying areas.

In Tana River County, Miliki, Majaliwa and Onido villages in Kipini West, Tana Delta Sub-County, have been completely cut off by floodwaters, while Chalaluma village in neighbouring Lamu County has also been marooned.

“Flooding along the Tana River continues as water levels at Idsowe Bridge remain high at 5.5 metres, increasing pressure downstream,” the Kenya Red Cross said in a statement.

The agency warned that more communities remain vulnerable as river levels stay elevated.

Response teams have intensified humanitarian support, reaching 2,396 households with shelter and hygiene assistance while distributing 143,700 water treatment sachets to reduce the risk of waterborne diseases.

The Kenya Red Cross said it is also supporting 10 displacement camps and plans to roll out medical and nutrition outreach services in hard-to-reach areas.

“More communities remain at risk as river levels stay high,” the agency said.

Last week, Red Cross emergency teams crossed the flooded Laga Galole at Daba Crossing to access Gofisa Village in Galedertu Sub-County, where dozens of families remain stranded.

Assessments conducted in the village established that 81 households had been affected and were in urgent need of food supplies, medical support and mosquito nets amid rising health risks.

“Assessments confirmed 81 households impacted, with urgent needs for food assistance, medical support and mosquito nets amid increased health risks,” the Red Cross said.

Meanwhile, the Tana River County Government, through the Department of Special Programmes and partners, has completed a countywide flood assessment exercise to determine the scale of destruction and humanitarian needs.

Officials said the assessment documented displacement of families, destruction of farms, isolation of villages and growing concerns over rising water levels along the River Tana.