By Obiabin Onukwugha
The Kenyan government has issued a directive warning of heavy flooding as heavy rains intensifies.
No fewer than 71 deaths, including five additional fatalities have been reported by the National Police Service (NPS) as search and rescue operations continue nationwide since intensified rains resulted in flooding in the country in the past two weeks.
The Kenya Meteorological Department (KMD), in the directive issued on Wednesday said rainfall is expected across the highlands east and west of the Rift Valley, Lake Victoria Basin, south eastern lowlands, and the coastal region between 19th to 23th March.
Nairobi has recorded the highest number of deaths at thrity-six, followed by the Eastern region with nineteen, Rift Valley eight, Nyanza four, Coast three, and Central one.
The floods have displaced approximately 2,622 families, destroyed homes, and caused widespread damage to infrastructure and property.
The Authorities warned that the heavy rains are set to continue, coinciding with the onset of the March-May long rains season, which typically brings heavier precipitation to many regions.
It stated that some areas may experience isolated heavy downpours, which could disrupt travel, farming, and other outdoor activities.
“The week of March 17 to March 23 is expected to be dominated by rainfall across much of the country. Residents should remain alert to updates as precipitation patterns develop and intensify throughout the week,” the statement read.
It further stated that while northeastern and northwestern Kenya are expected to remain mostly dry, occasional showers cannot be ruled out, and residents are advised to stay vigilant.
“Temperatures above 30°C are expected along the Coast, northeastern, and northwestern Kenya, while high-altitude areas such as the Highlands East of the Rift Valley, North Rift, and areas near Mount Kilimanjaro could experience night-time lows below 10°C,” the ststement further read.
“The National Police Service, in collaboration with all relevant partners, continues to undertake arduous search and rescue operations across the country.
“We commend all responders, volunteers, and partners for their swift and selfless actions,” ,” the police stated on Tuesday.
The NPS urged the public to exercise extreme caution, follow official advisories, and report emergencies through toll-free numbers 999, 911, 112, or via Fichua kwa DCI on 0800 722 203 / WhatsApp 0709 570 000.
“With the long rains intensifying, authorities continue to monitor flood-prone areas and urge residents to take precautions against flooding, landslides, and other hazards,” the statement added.