By Andrew Kariuki
A lightning strike has claimed one life in Kilifi County as heavy rains continue to cause destruction across parts of the country, with flooding also disrupting transport along a key highway in Narok County.
The fatal incident was reported in Kaloleni sub-county, where authorities confirmed that the victim was struck by lightning during a storm accompanied by strong winds. The body was later retrieved and taken to Mariakani Hospital mortuary.
Kilifi County Commissioner David Wanyonyi said officials have been deployed to sensitize residents on safety precautions amid the ongoing extreme weather conditions. He urged communities to remain vigilant during storms and to avoid exposure to risky environments during lightning activity.
Meanwhile, in Narok County, heavy rains have triggered flooding and significant silt deposition along the Mai Mahiu–Suswa–Narok (B7) Road at Kedong Ranch near Suswa, severely disrupting traffic flow along the busy transport corridor.
The Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) has since launched operations to clear the debris and restore access on the affected stretch of road.
Narok County Commissioner Kipkech Lotiata has advised motorists to avoid the area and instead use alternative routes, including Ngong–Suswa, Nairobi–Naivasha–Nakuru–Mau Narok–Narok and Nairobi–Naivasha–Longonot–Suswa.
The incidents come amid growing concerns over the impact of heavy rains currently being experienced in several parts of the country. Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely while urging the public to take precautionary measures to safeguard lives and property.
