Heavy rains raise flood concerns in 5 Kenyan counties
The National El Niño Emergency and Disaster Response Command Centre said Taita Taveta, Narok, Migori, Homabay and Siaya counties were experiencing heavy rains and isolated storms.
However, it said floods in Lamu, Tana River, and Garissa counties gradually receded.
“Despite this positive progress, critical relief items continue to be delivered to all affected counties, providing vital support to communities coping with the aftermath of the floods. Active planning is also underway for the second phase of relief distribution to the affected districts in recognition of the evolving situation,” the command centre said in a statement.
It also said it was committed to ensuring that affected populations receive the assistance they need to recover and rebuild.
The statement said it was working closely with various agencies, including government departments and humanitarian organisations, to provide essential assistance.
The assistance includes “food distribution, provision of temporary shelter, medical care, water and sanitation support, and restoration of damaged infrastructure.”
“We express our gratitude to all individuals, organisations and government agencies who are involved in the ongoing response efforts and are helping to get us through this period,” the statement added.
The statement was released the same day that heavy rains hit Nairobi County.
The rains came two weeks after a break in the El Niño rains that have hit various parts of the country.
Many Kenyans were caught off-guard, some taking refuge under bridges while others sought shelter under trees.
While some pedestrians ran with the rain, others were seen braving the showers to get to work.
The rains also caused traffic jams in various parts of the city.