The Government has issued flood warnings in Kisumu, Tana River, and Uasin Gishu counties after rivers burst their banks, causing extensive inundation in multiple communities.
Emergency teams are on the ground conducting rescue operations as residents remain on high alert. Recent flash floods have resulted in 84 fatalities, with three people still missing nationwide.
In a press release issued by the government on Tuesday, it says that River Nyando in Kisumu County has overflowed, spilling into multiple locations, including Kakola, Onjiko, Kochogo, East Kano, Okanja, Kamidumbi, and Panadol.
Other affected areas include the lower parts of Kakola Ombaka Sub-Location and regions bordering several streams, including Awach, Agala, Nyalbiego, Chamrogi, and Nyaidho.
Emergency operations are underway, with the Kenya Coast Guard Service, Kenya Red Cross, and Kisumu County disaster management team actively assisting residents.
National Government Administrative Officers are closely monitoring river levels to prevent further escalation.
Field reports indicate a rapid rise in river levels, with strong currents flowing across Awasi, Onjiko, Kochogo, and Kakola, increasing the risk of flash floods.
Some overflows in Magina Sub-Location remain contained within existing dykes, but authorities have raised concerns about potential breaches, particularly along weakened sections of both Eastern and Western dykes.
Heavy rainfall upstream may worsen the situation, threatening flooding around Okanja, Kamidumbi, Panadol, as well as areas surrounding Ahero Girls and Kakola Ombaka, along with some stretches of the Kisumu-Nairobi road.
Locals have been urged to remain vigilant while multi-agency emergency teams are on high alert.
In Tana River County, rising water levels in River Tana have caused flooding in Asako Village, Mbalambala Location, affecting nearby farms.
Similarly, in Uasin Gishu County, assessments of River Sosiani in Lower Elgon View, Racecourse Location, have revealed flooding of residential and hospitality facility lawns due to the rising river levels.
The floods come amid a period of heavy rainfall in several parts of the country. Government authorities are warning that continued precipitation may exacerbate river overflows and pose risks to additional communities.
Recent nationwide flash floods have resulted in a total of 84 fatalities, with three people still reported missing.
These statistics highlight the severity of the flooding situation, even beyond the three rivers currently under alert. Emergency teams are working to reach affected residents and mitigate further losses.
Authorities continue to advise residents to avoid low-lying areas, stay away from fast-flowing waters, and adhere to guidance from local disaster management officials.
Multi-agency coordination remains a priority as rescue operations continue in Kisumu, Tana River, and Uasin Gishu counties.
The Government has emphasized that the situation remains dynamic, with water levels fluctuating due to both upstream rainfall and ongoing river flows.
Residents in affected areas are being encouraged to remain indoors or evacuate to higher ground where necessary. Rescue teams are equipped to provide assistance to those stranded or affected by the floods.
Authorities are also monitoring infrastructure such as roads, bridges, and dykes for damage.
While some dykes have contained minor overflows, weakened sections are being reinforced to prevent potential breaches.
Roads in vulnerable areas, including stretches of the Kisumu-Nairobi highway, may be affected by floodwaters, prompting authorities to advise caution.
With continued vigilance and coordinated emergency response, the Government aims to minimize the impact of these floods on communities and infrastructure. Updates will be provided as the situation develops and rescue operations progress.
