Weatherman Advises Kenyans to Be on the Lookout For Potential Floods

Heavy Rainfall

In the last two months, floods have wreaked havoc countrywide claiming the lives of more than 100 people with West Pokot being the most affected county.

According to government spokesman Cyrus Oguna, 32 counties have been hit by mudslides and floods, with 350,000 people in dire need of assistance as roads, bridges and other infrastructure have been destroyed. In a recent statement, the Kenya Meteorological Department said that the rains being experienced over the southern and western parts of the country are expected to continue this week.

Heavy rainfalls of more than 30mm in 24 hours are expected as from today Friday, November 29 over the South Rift, Central Rift and Nyanza Regions and likely to spread to other parts of Central Kenya, Nairobi, South East Lowlands on Tuesday, Tuesday 4th December.

“Residents, in all mentioned areas are advised to be on the lookout for potential floods. Floodwaters may suddenly appear even in places, particularly lowlands where it has not rained heavily and can be deeper and faster than they look. Residents are advised to avoid driving through or walking in fast-moving water or open fields, and not to shelter under trees or near grilled windows to minimize exposure to lightning strikes. People in landslide-prone areas especially hilly areas are advised to be on high alert,” cautioned the statement.

Rainfall that is being experienced in the country has led to overflows in most of the rivers and the grounds are easily saturated with waters. The rainfall is expected to continue for the entire period but with occasional breaks. Flooding and landslide may, therefore, be triggered by any substantial amount of rainfall in low lying areas and hilly grounds and the public is advised to be alert.

Narok, Kajiado, Kericho, Bomet, Migori, Nyamira, Nyeri, Kiambu, Nyandarua, Machakos are other areas likely to be affected.