This archive report was first published on 10 December 2019.
On Tuesday, River Ewaso Nyiro burst its banks, causing widespread flooding in Samburu and Isiolo counties. The devastating floods have affected five hotels and lodges, including Intrated Safari Lodge, Asnil Lodges, Larsens Camp, Elephant Bedroom, and Sarova Shaba Lodges.
According to Samburu County Commissioner John Korir, all staff and guests have been evacuated from the hotels and taken to safer areas. Fortunately, there were no reports of loss of life or injuries.
"Five hotels along the river have been hit by floods but we are glad that there was no loss of life or injuries," Mr Korir told the Nation on phone.
The value of property destroyed by the raging waters is yet to be established, Mr Korir added. He appealed to local residents to avoid crossing flooded rivers to prevent loss of lives and destruction of properties.
His Isiolo counterpart, Joseph Kanyiri, also warned locals against crossing Gotu bridge at Archers Post until the water levels subside. "Drivers and residents should not dare the raging waters flowing above the bridge to avoid accidents and loss of lives," he said.
Mr Kanyiri also appealed to residents at Ngaremara and Iresaboru areas affected by floods to move to higher and safer grounds. "We will continue to sensitise our people on the precautionary measures to take," he noted.
A security team from Samburu County will tomorrow morning tour the affected hotels to assess the situation. "We will visit the areas and assess the roads and damages caused," Mr Korir said.
