This archive report was first published on 6 May 2020.
As heavy rains continue to batter Kenya, the death toll from floods has risen to 194, with another 30 lives lost in the last 24 hours, according to Devolution CS Eugene Wamalwa.
Speaking on the situation, CS Wamalwa emphasized the need for people living in flood-prone areas to relocate immediately, citing the danger that still lurks in these regions.
“For those asking where they will move to, note that County commissioners are helping people to move. We are currently using some closed schools as shelter grounds for the affected families,” CS Wamalwa said.
Interior CS Fred Matiang’i stressed the urgency of the situation, stating that the government is using public resources to move people away from danger, even if it means doing so by force.
“We do not have an option. We are moving people by force even if it means putting them in lorries ourselves,” Matiang’i said.
With the Meteorological department projecting more rains in the coming days, people living in Garissa, Tana River, and the coastal region are likely to be the most affected.
Water levels in some dams across the country have risen to unprecedented levels, posing a high risk to people living in surrounding areas. Energy CS Charles Keter has appealed to those living downstream to relocate as soon as possible, as the situation worsens.
Government ministries will continue providing food and water aid to the displaced families, including cash transfers.
According to an update by the Kenya Meteorological Department (Met) on Tuesday, heavy rainfall is expected in parts of West Pokot, Trans Nzoia, Keiyo-Marakwet, Bungoma, Uasin Gishu, Nandi, Vihiga, Kisumu, Kericho, Nyamira, Kisii, Narok, and Samburu for the next week.
