Flooding and heavy rains in Kenya have resulted in the deaths of at least 70 people since mid-March, according to a government spokesperson. The country has experienced weeks of heavy rains and severe flooding in various regions, including the capital city of Nairobi and areas in the western and central regions. The government has denied claims of hundreds of deaths due to flooding and maintains that the official toll stands at 70 individuals.
In Makueni county, five bodies were recovered from a river after a lorry they were traveling in was swept off a submerged bridge, with another 11 individuals being rescued. Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua announced that the government has allocated 4 billion Kenya shillings ($29 million) for emergency relief efforts, though specific details were not provided. Over 130,000 people have been affected by the flooding, with thousands of homes destroyed or inundated, and 64 public schools in the capital had to close due to flooding. Additionally, roads and bridges have been damaged or washed away as a result of the severe weather.
The Kenya Meteorological Department has issued a heavy rainfall advisory for the upcoming weekend and cautioned residents to remain vigilant. In addition to Kenya, other East African countries have also reported instances of flooding. In neighboring Tanzania, 155 people have reportedly died, while more than 200,000 individuals have been affected in Burundi. The ongoing heavy rains and flooding have caused widespread devastation and displacement in the region, prompting emergency response efforts to assist those in need.
As the death toll from flooding in Kenya continues to rise, government officials are mobilizing resources to address the crisis. With thousands of people affected and numerous homes destroyed or damaged, emergency relief efforts are a top priority. Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s announcement of 4 billion Kenya shillings allocated for relief efforts demonstrates the government’s commitment to assisting those impacted by the floods. The closure of schools, roads, and bridges further underscores the extent of the damage caused by the severe weather conditions.
The Kenya Meteorological Department’s issuance of a heavy rainfall advisory highlights the ongoing threat posed by the weather conditions in the region. Residents are being urged to exercise caution and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety. The collaborative response to the flooding crisis in East Africa, with neighboring countries also grappling with similar challenges, emphasizes the importance of regional cooperation and support in times of natural disasters. As the situation continues to evolve, it is essential for governments and humanitarian organizations to work together to provide assistance to those in need and mitigate the impacts of the flooding.
