DP Gachagua Urges Caution as Kenya Braces for More rain, floods » Capital News

NAIROBI, Apr 28 – Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has issued a stern warning to Kenyans, urging them to exercise caution amidst the ongoing floods. He emphasized the tragic consequences of disregarding safety measures, noting that some of the fatalities occurred due to individuals daring to cross flooded paths.

Gachagua urged citizens to prioritize safety and responsibility by avoiding flooded areas as the heavy rains persist across the country.

Kenya, along with two other East African nations, braces for another week of heavy rainfall, as forecasted by the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD). Recent weeks have seen Kenya and its neighbours battered by stronger-than-usual rain, exacerbated by the El Nino weather pattern.

The devastating impact of these rains is evident, with flash floods submerging roads and neighbourhoods, leading to the displacement of more than 130,000 people across 24,000 households, as reported by government spokesman Isaac Mwaura. Tragically, six more lives have been lost in the last 12 hours, bringing the total fatalities to 76 by Saturday April 27, with 29 Kenyans injured and 19 reported missing.

Gachagua emphasized the importance of heeding government advisories and avoiding unnecessary risks during the floods. He urged citizens not to challenge the forces of nature and to prioritize their safety above all else. The ongoing floods have wreaked havoc on communities, resulting in the destruction of properties and infrastructure, and causing loss of lives and displacement of families.

According to the government’s spokesperson Isaac Mwaura, 50 camps have been set up across the country to accommodate over 131,000 displaced individuals. The death toll from the ongoing rains currently stands at 76, with all 47 counties affected by the floods, leading to widespread displacement and destruction.

In Nairobi alone, the death toll caused by the floods has risen to 32, with 16,909 households displaced so far. Rescue efforts have been underway, with the Kenya Red Cross conducting operations to save individuals at risk of being swept away by floodwaters. In various areas across the country, including Chokaa in Nairobi and Saka in Tana River County, rescue teams have evacuated individuals stranded by the floods to safer grounds.

As Kenya continues to grapple with the ongoing rains, IGAD warns of the likelihood of continued heavy rainfall and the persistent risk of flooding. The situation underscores the urgent need for coordinated efforts to mitigate the impact of the floods and ensure the safety and well-being of all citizens.

About The Author