Motorists travelling along the Kericho–Awasi–Kisumu corridor have been urged to seek alternative routes after flooding along River Nyando rendered a key section of the highway impassable.
In a public alert issued on March 23, Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura said the river had burst its banks at Ahero Bridge, causing water to spill onto the roadway and posing what authorities described as a “significant risk” to road users.
The affected section lies along a major transport artery linking the Rift Valley to Kisumu, a critical commercial hub in western Kenya. Officials warned that water levels were still rising, increasing the danger to motorists attempting to cross.
Following guidance from regional traffic authorities, the government directed vehicles travelling to and from Kisumu to divert at Timboroa, proceeding through Lesos and Kapsabet before reconnecting via Chavakali. The advisory applies to all categories of road users.
Authorities emphasized heightened risk during nighttime hours, when visibility is reduced and it becomes difficult to assess both the depth and force of the floodwaters—conditions that have historically contributed to road accidents during flooding events.
The government said it is continuing to monitor the situation and will issue updates as conditions evolve. Motorists were urged to comply fully with the directive and exercise caution.
Seasonal flooding is common in low-lying areas along the Nyando basin, particularly during periods of heavy rainfall. Infrastructure disruptions in the region often have broader economic implications, affecting trade and mobility across western Kenya.