At Least 18 Killed by Floods and Landslides in Kenya

Heavy Rains Cause Flooding and Landslides in Kenya

At least 18 people have died as a result of flooding and landslides caused by heavy rains in various parts of Kenya. According to the police, landslides were reported in Tharaka Nithi, Elgeyo-Marakwet, and Kiambu counties in the country’s central and eastern regions.

The police confirmed that 18 lives had been lost to these incidents and urged caution amid the challenging weather conditions. Mudslides have impacted multiple families, displaced households, and caused significant damage to property and infrastructure. Residents living in landslide-prone or flood-affected areas are being warned to exercise caution.

Reports from local media show streets in Nairobi overflowing with water as cars and pedestrians navigate through the deluge. Traders in the city’s Makongeni and Ruai neighbourhoods staged protests on Sunday over the poor state of roads, citing it as an impact on their businesses.

Weather authorities earlier warned that the rains posed health risks in the form of waterborne diseases, and damage to crops and farmland across the country was likely. This is the second time in less than two months that parts of Kenya are experiencing deadly floods. In March, floodwaters swelled to the brim in parts of Nairobi, killing at least 37 people.

The East African nation is currently experiencing its seasonal March to May rain season, which typically peaks in the first half of May. Experts have noted that human-induced climate change is exacerbating weather conditions in Kenya and other East African countries.

Source: Al Jazeera