Nationwide floods in Kenya have displaced over 3,970 households, disrupted transport and agriculture, and caused 12 fatalities, with one person still missing.
This was revealed by Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo on Tuesday, December 3, 2024, after touring flood-affected regions in Busia and Kisumu counties to evaluate the extent of damage and oversee the distribution of relief supplies.
At least 500 displaced households are sheltered at Lunyofu Primary School, with over 3,000 households in Busia having been impacted by the floods, according to Omollo.
The PS also visited Ogenya Displaced Persons Camp which is sheltering 1,973 households.
“While the rains are expected to subside soon, we must remain vigilant and adhere to government safety directives. This includes avoiding hazardous zones including dams, roads and bridges deemed unsafe and following evacuation notices,” Omollo said.
Omollo urged residents of Ugenya to participate in the Chief’s Climate Action Day, held every first Friday of the month, and embrace tree-planting initiatives to mitigate climate change effects.
“Tree planting is vital for securing our environment, mitigating climate change effects, and addressing food security challenges,” he said.
Floods and weather forecast
The Kenya Meteorological Department has forecasted reduced rainfall in most of the countries from December 3 to 9, 2024.
In a statement on Monday, December 2, 2024, the weatherman said that some regions such as the Lake Victoria Basin, South Rift Valley, South-eastern Lowlands and the Coast will, however, still experience showers.
“Rainfall is expected to decrease in many regions, but some areas will still experience showers. Expect rainfall in: Lake Victoria Basin, South Rift Valley, South-eastern Lowlands and Coast,” the weatherman stated.
The weatherman predicts that temperatures above 30°C are likely in the Coast, North-eastern, and North-western Kenya.
Chilly nights with temperatures below 10°C in parts of the Central Highlands and Central Rift Valley are also expected within the week.
In the last one week, rainfall continued to be recorded in most parts of the country, which have caused floods in some parts.
