Floods Update: The government has reported an additional 10 fatalities from floods within the past 24 hours, raising the total death toll to 179 since the onset of heavy rains. Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura conveyed in a statement released on Wednesday evening that out of the 179 casualties, 164 are adults, while 15 are children.
The number of missing persons has climbed to 90, with 20 more individuals reported missing within the last 24 hours. Meanwhile, the total count of displaced individuals stands at 195,011.
“Moreover, the ongoing flooding has led to the displacement of an additional 1,127 households raising the number of displaced households to 31,341 with 195,011 people affected. The government has set up displacement camps to provide alternative accommodation to the displaced,” Mwaura stated.
Mwaura further disclosed that an additional 125 Kenyans have sustained injuries and are currently undergoing treatment in health facilities nationwide as the relentless rains persist.
This announcement comes amidst warnings from the weatherman of above-average rainfall anticipated for the new month, heightening concerns over continued flooding and its impacts.
“The month of April marked the peak of the ongoing March-April-May (MAM) long rains, except for the Coastal region where the rains are expected to peak in May. The weather forecast shows that the country will continue to receive above-average rainfall in this new month,” Mwaura said.
The Spokesperson affirmed the government’s dedication to addressing the situation, emphasizing that multi-agency teams have been deployed nationwide. These teams are tasked with distributing essential supplies and conducting rescue operations for those impacted by the floods.
“The government has stepped up response with the KDF already enjoined in recovery and evacuation exercises. Distribution of Food and Non-Food Items (F&NFIs) continues across the country with a relief operation planned for the next two months,” he said.
“The government has also set up a Relief Operations Centre at the National Cereals Produce Board (NCPB).”
He reiterated the government’s stance on residents living in flood-prone areas, which have been identified as vulnerable ecosystems. The government had previously issued a 48-hour notice urging residents to vacate these areas.
“Before the end of today, members of the public residing within the risky areas are required to relocate within 48 hours. These include the areas near dams and other water reservoirs in public or private land, areas prone to mudslides and landslides and riparian lands across the country,” Mwaura stated.
“The government has finalized the arrangements to provide alternative accommodation to those who shall be displaced.”
Meanwhile, the Kenya Meteorological Department issued a warning on Tuesday, indicating that heavy downpours are expected particularly on Thursday and Friday.
