Devastating Floods Wreak Havoc in The Country.
Days of relentless rainfall have wreaked havoc across various parts of the country, resulting in significant loss of life, injuries, and displacement of thousands of people. According to officials, at least 32 individuals have lost their lives, with 15 others sustaining injuries, and over 40,000 individuals displaced from their homes.
The impact of the flooding extends beyond human casualties, with nearly 1,000 farm animals perishing and thousands of acres of crops destroyed. The situation has been exacerbated by the onset of the “long rains” season in March, which intensified over the past week, as reported by the Kenya Meteorological Department.
In Nairobi, one of the hardest-hit areas, more than 30,000 residents have been forced to flee their homes due to the rising waters. The Meteorological Department estimates that the displacement figure in the capital alone exceeds this number. Recent incidents, such as the rescue of 18 individuals, including seven children, stranded in heavy rainfall, highlight the dire situation faced by many.
Local authorities, particularly in Nairobi, have been struggling to cope with the scale of the disaster. Senator Edwin Sifuna voiced concerns about the overwhelming response from the local government and appealed to the federal government for assistance. He described the situation as “extreme,” emphasizing the urgent need for intervention to mitigate further harm.
Despite ongoing rescue efforts and humanitarian assistance, the weather forecast offers little respite. The Kenya Meteorological Department predicts continued rainfall in the coming days, extending through Friday. This forecast underscores the persistent threat posed by inclement weather, particularly in vulnerable regions like Nairobi.
A man crossing a flooded river on a pipeline in Mathare, a neighborhood of slums in Nairobi where many live in tin shacks.
A man swimming through floodwaters to try to rescue people stranded in their homes in Ngondo Village in Mathare.
Residents of Mathare tried to salvage goods from their homes.
