Heavy rains and floods have caused devastation in Kenya, leading to more than 120 deaths, with over 40 people killed in the southern town of Mai Mahiu after a dam burst. The government has warned of a possible downstream overflow as hydroelectric dams are filled to capacity due to the incessant rainfall. Flash floods have also affected Kamuchiri Village, forcing several people to seek medical attention at a health facility.
The chaotic conditions have left Kenyan authorities struggling to cope with the aftermath of the floods. Heavy rains, exacerbated by the El Nino weather pattern, have displaced more than 131,000 people and destroyed roads and bridges across the nation. The international airport in Nairobi experienced flooding in a road underpass, but flights continued as scheduled. The government has also postponed the start of the new school term by a week due to the severe impact of the rains on school infrastructure.
The devastating effects of the floods have not only been felt in Kenya but throughout the East African region. In Burundi, nearly 100,000 people have been displaced, while at least 58 people have died in Tanzania with several thousand left homeless. Scientists attribute the increase in extreme weather events, such as the record floods in late 2023 and the current heavy rainfall, to climate change. The Kenya Meteorological Department has warned of continued heavy rainfall in parts of the country until May, leading to further concerns about potential flooding.
The situation in Kenya remains dire, with ongoing rescue and search operations in Mai Mahiu to recover the bodies of those who lost their lives in the dam burst and flash floods. The Kenya Red Cross, police, County Disaster team, and community members are collaborating to provide assistance to affected individuals. The government is also working to ensure the safety of schools before allowing learners and staff to return, emphasizing the need for water-tight measures in the wake of the devastating floods.
As the rains continue to pound various parts of the country, the government faces the challenge of managing the aftermath of the floods and providing support to those affected. With more heavy rainfall forecasted, there is a growing concern about the potential for further destruction and loss of life. The impacts of climate change are evident in the increased intensity and frequency of extreme weather events, highlighting the urgent need for mitigation and adaptation measures to address the growing challenges posed by unpredictable weather patterns in the region.
