This archive report was first published on 2 December 2019.
Floods in Kenya: How to Stay Safe ¶
Published on December 2, 2019
Kenya is experiencing severe flooding due to the November-December rains, with various parts of the country affected, including West Pokot, Makueni, Nairobi, Mandera, Marsabit, parts of Nyanza and western Kenya.
According to National Geographic, the most common cause of flooding is water due to rain that accumulates faster than soils can absorb it or rivers can carry it away.
Identify Flood-Susceptible Areas ¶
Flood-susceptible areas include valleys, plains, canyons, swamps, coasts, and anywhere near large water bodies.
Flooding can occur due to prolonged rain, intense rain falls over a short period of time, or debris that causes a river or stream to overflow onto the surrounding area.
Failure of a water control structure, such as a levee or dam, can also lead to flooding.
Stay Safe During Floods ¶
Listen to the news for flood risk warnings and tune in to monitor changes in the weather.
Remember to listen to local radio stations for periodic updates.
Assemble an emergency supplies kit that includes basic necessities, such as food and water for at least three days, a flashlight, and personal identification documents.
Identify evacuation routes and be prepared to leave on foot if necessary.
When a flood warning is issued for your area, evacuate immediately and head for higher ground.
Stay out of moving water and avoid going under debris.
Hold onto strong trees and yell for help if you need assistance.
After the flood wave, cautiously return home and disinfect and repair affected areas to stay safe even after the water is gone.
