Kenya hit by floods and landslides claiming at least 18 lives

Heavy Rains Cause Flooding and Landslides in Kenya

At least 18 people have died in flooding and landslides caused by heavy rains in multiple 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.

Mudslides are affecting multiple families, displacing households, and causing significant damage to property and infrastructure. Residents living in landslide-prone or flood-affected areas have been warned by authorities 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 due to poor road conditions, which are affecting 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 have experienced deadly floods.

The East African nation is currently experiencing its seasonal March to May rain season, which usually 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