Heavy floodings have claimed the lives of at least 62 people in Kenya over the past week, authorities have said, as heavy rains continue to batter the African country. Overnight, emergency services rushed to rescue two children from a flooded house and to help 11 people whose minibus taxi got stuck in rising water in Nairobi.

The rain that's been battering the country for days has prompted rivers to burst from their banks as well as huge damages to properties, roads, power and water lines. More than 2000 people have already been forced to evacuate their homes and seek shelter elsewhere.

And, as the deluge continues, authorities have urged people living in low-lying areas to move to safer ground.

On March 15, Kenya's Interior Ministry warned that different parts of the country were continuing to experience heavy rains, increasing the risk of flooding.

The continuous rain is also affecting search and rescue operations, authorities said.

Among those who sadly died in the floods, 33 were in Nairobi.

The heavy rain began on March 6, submerging vehicles and forcing motorists in some areas to wade through hip-high water to reach higher ground.

Kenya President William Samoei Ruto issued a statement on X on Sunday morning, saying his thoughts were with those affected by the ongoing tragedy.

He also said: "I want to assure all Kenyans that the Government remains fully mobilised to respond. Last week, I directed the activation of a multi-agency response bringing together emergency services, security agencies, humanitarian teams and technical departments to coordinate efforts and manage the situation effectively in Nairobi and across the country.

"Relevant agencies are also actively assisting with rescue and evacuation operations, as well as clearing blocked drainage systems and restoring access routes in affected areas. The National Government is working closely with county governments to ensure the safety and protection of all citizens."

Emergency food supplies and medical assistance were also being delivered to people affected by the floods, he added, before urging people to strictly follow the guidance issued by relevant authorities.