The Kenya Red Cross has raised concerns over potential hazards following devastating floods at the Old Kijabe railway tunnel in Mai Mahiu, Nakuru County, where 52 lives were tragically lost. Flash floods, triggered by a blocked railway tunnel, wreaked havoc on the town, sweeping through five villages and leaving a trail of destruction.
As rescue efforts continue and heavy rains persist, the humanitarian organization is urging residents to remain vigilant and prepare for possible evacuations. Additionally, the government has issued a 24-hour evacuation notice for residents in 33 counties with high-risk dams and water reservoirs, emphasizing the need for safety precautions.
Mandatory evacuations are underway in Nairobi County along rivers like Mathare, Ngong, and Nairobi Rivers, with the government providing support to affected individuals. In response to the crisis, numerous temporary shelters have been set up across multiple counties to accommodate those displaced by the floods.
In light of this, the government has issued a 24-hour evacuation notice effective May 2, 2024, impacting residents in 33 counties with 178 high-risk dams and water reservoirs. Residents living within the 30-meter riparian corridor of rivers and watercourses nationwide have been instructed to vacate immediately for their safety.
In Nairobi County, mandatory evacuation along rivers such as Mathare, Ngong, and Nairobi Rivers is underway, with the government providing logistical support, temporary shelter, and essential supplies to affected individuals.
To accommodate those displaced by the floods, 115 camps have been established across 19 counties, offering refuge to 27,586 people.
