Recent flash floods in Kenya have resulted in the tragic loss of at least 32 lives, with two individuals still missing. The impact of the floods has been widespread, affecting a total of 103,500 people across the country. The heavy rainfall, which began in mid-March, has intensified in the past week, leading to mass flooding in various regions.
The Kenyan Red Cross has been actively involved in rescue operations, conducting over 188 rescues since the onset of the floods in March. The situation in the capital city of Nairobi has been particularly severe, with some neighborhoods remaining submerged and roads closed due to the heavy rainfall.
City Senator Edwin Sifuna highlighted the escalating crisis in Nairobi, emphasizing the need for national emergency services to be mobilized to save lives. He shared a video showing residents trapped on the roofs of their houses in an informal settlement in the city.
The Kenya Red Cross Society reported rescuing 18 individuals in the Mathare 4A neighborhood who were stranded by floodwaters. In response to the flooding, the Kenya Urban Roads Authority partially closed four heavily affected roads and warned of flooding on two others. Traffic police and technical teams were deployed to manage traffic and ensure the safety of motorists.
As a precautionary measure, Kenya Railways suspended commuter train services nationwide to prioritize customer safety. The Kenya Meteorological Department issued a warning of continued heavy rainfall in various parts of the country, emphasizing the need for preparedness and caution.
With the situation remaining critical, it is essential for authorities and emergency services to work together to provide assistance and support to those affected by the devastating flash floods in Kenya.
