Heavy rains paralyze transport in Ukunda, Diani

A heavy downpour that began early Tuesday morning has brought much of Ukunda and Diani to a standstill, flooding major roads, disrupting transport, and slowing business activity across the coastal town in Kwale County.

The rains, which started around 1 a.m., intensified through the morning, turning several streets into streams and leaving motorists and pedestrians stranded.

By mid-morning, sections of the Ukunda–Lungalunga Road were submerged, forcing tuktuk operators and drivers to wade cautiously through the rising water.

Some vehicles stalled, while others were forced to turn back as visibility and traction worsened.

By mid-morning, sections of the Ukunda–Lungalunga Road were submerged, forcing tuktuk operators and motorists to navigate cautiously through deep pools of water.

 Several vehicles stalled along the route, while pedestrians sought shelter under shop verandas and temporary sheds to escape the relentless rain.

Public transport has been hit hard, with matatus and tuktuks reporting long travel times and fewer passengers.

“We’ve been on the road since morning, but it’s taking twice as long to get to town,” said a tuktuk driver operating in Ukunda.

 “Some areas are completely flooded, and it’s risky for smaller vehicles.”

Matatu drivers also reported reduced business as many residents opted to stay indoors.

Vehicles were taking longer to fill before departure, leading to delays and lower earnings for crews.

“Work is slow today,” said another matatu operator. “People are not coming out as usual, and we have to wait much longer to get enough passengers.”

The heavy rains have also affected small businesses across Ukunda and Diani, with shop owners near the town center reporting a sharp drop in sales as movement slowed.

“Customers are barely showing up,” said a shopkeeper near the Rubis petrol station.

“Most people are waiting for the rain to stop before leaving their homes.”

Floodwater has pooled in residential estates and around market areas, making it difficult for traders to open stalls.

Street vendors who rely on foot traffic said they had little hope of recovering the day’s losses if the rains persisted.

Local authorities have urged residents to exercise caution on flooded roads, warning that more heavy rain is expected.

Some drainage systems in Ukunda and Diani were reportedly overwhelmed, worsening the flooding in low-lying sections of the town.

The Kenya Meteorological Department has forecast continued heavy rainfall along the Coast, particularly in Kwale, Mombasa, and Kilifi counties, over the next few days.

The department has advised residents in flood-prone areas to stay alert and avoid crossing swollen rivers or bridges.

As the downpour shows no sign of easing, residents are calling for improved drainage infrastructure to prevent recurrent flooding that often disrupts transport and livelihoods during the rainy season.