Kenyans Warned: Don’t Relax Yet-Flood Risk Still Deadly

Rainfall is expected to gradually decline across the country this week, bringing some relief after days of heavy downpours that caused deaths and displaced thousands.

Despite the anticipated reduction, officials caution that risks remain high due to saturated ground, which could still trigger flooding and landslides.

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According to the Kenya Meteorological Department, rains will continue in several regions over the next seven days, though with decreasing intensity. Intermittent showers and thunderstorms are still likely, particularly in the afternoons and at night.

The forecast indicates a mix of cloudy mornings, sunny intervals, and later rainfall across different parts of the country.

This comes after a week of intense rainfall, with the heaviest amounts recorded in the Southeastern Lowlands, including Ukambani and Taita Taveta.

At the same time, the IGAD Climate Prediction and Applications Centre projects that Kenya will experience above-normal rainfall from April through June, alongside higher-than-usual temperatures.

The ongoing rains have already caused significant damage. According to the Ministry of Interior, at least 81 people have lost their lives, over 68,000 displaced, and several others remain missing across 21 counties.

Counties worst affected include Nairobi, Kisumu, Narok County, Kiambu County, Migori County, Siaya County, Makueni County, Busia County and Wajir County among others.

Floodwaters have disrupted transport, damaged infrastructure, and cut off essential services, with roads and bridges rendered unusable in some areas. Power outages and water supply interruptions have also been reported, while schools and businesses have been heavily affected.

Residential areas, farms, and markets have been inundated, raising concerns over food security and livelihoods.

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Data shows Nairobi recorded the highest number of fatalities, followed by the Eastern and Rift Valley regions.

Even as rainfall subsides, experts warn that swollen rivers and blocked drainage systems mean even moderate rains could trigger fresh flooding, especially in low-lying and hilly areas prone to landslides.

Temperatures are also expected to vary, with highs above 30°C in coastal and northern regions, while some highland areas near Mount Kilimanjaro could experience night temperatures dropping below 10°C.

Emergency response efforts are ongoing, led by the government alongside the Kenya Red Cross Society and the National Disaster Operations Centre. These include rescue missions, relief aid distribution, and infrastructure repair.

As conditions begin to improve, authorities are urging residents in high-risk areas to stay alert, avoid flooded zones, and follow safety guidelines.

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