Major Wildfire at Lake Nakuru National Park
The Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) has confirmed that a significant wildfire erupted on the evening of Friday, February 6, 2026, but was brought under control within hours thanks to a rapid multi-agency response.
The blaze originated around 4:00 p.m. in the Lake View Estate area before strong winds and dry vegetation carried it into the park, reaching the Honeymoon Hill section. Dramatic images shared widely on social media depicted vivid orange flames racing across hillsides, thick plumes of smoke rising into the night sky, and the fire burning perilously close to residential neighborhoods.
KWS, working alongside community members, the City Fire Team, and Bondeni Police, mounted an intensive effort that successfully contained the fire by 10:00 p.m. the same evening. Authorities reported no injuries or fatalities among people or wildlife, and no extensive damage occurred within the protected conservation area, which is renowned for its diverse ecosystems and populations of rhinos, flamingos, and other species. The quick intervention prevented the blaze from advancing further and potentially threatening more of the park or surrounding communities.
In the wake of the incident, KWS issued a strong public advisory urging caution during the ongoing dry season, when dry grass and windy conditions make fires highly prone to rapid spread and pose grave risks to human life, wildlife habitats, property, and the environment. The agency emphasized the dangers of lighting fires irresponsibly and encouraged the public to report any suspicious activity. This event comes just weeks after a similar bushfire at nearby Mount Longonot National Park, underscoring the recurring threat of wildfires in the region during dry periods. KWS continues to monitor the area closely.
