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Highways Close As Floods Rip Kenyan Roads
Heavy rains continue to wreak havoc across Kenya, leaving a trail of destruction and loss of life. The Kenya National Highways Authority (KENHA) announced the closure of the Mai Mahiu-Suswa/Narok highway on Monday evening after heavy debris blocked a section near Suswa.
This closure followed a devastating flood in the area that swept away homes and claimed the lives of at least 71 people, with dozens still missing. Search and rescue missions are ongoing amidst the relentless downpour.
Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua visited the scene in Kianduma village to offer condolences to those affected. He acknowledged the immense damage caused by the floods, highlighting the humanitarian crisis gripping the region. Transport CS Kipchumba Murkomen revealed a nationwide death toll of 300 due to flooding since the long rains began.
Adding to the transportation woes, a separate incident on Tuesday morning forced the closure of a section of the busy Embu-Meru highway. Cracks emerged on the Ikong’u bridge near Kiagima, prompting authorities to redirect traffic. Embu County Police Commander Nicholas Maina advised motorists to follow designated detours while repairs are underway.
These closures come as several areas across the country grapple with the consequences of the heavy rains. In Murang’a, landslides triggered by the downpour claimed the lives of six people, with several others injured. Nationwide, the floods have displaced at least 30,000 households, affecting over 150,000 people. The situation in Sindo, Homa Bay County, exemplifies the widespread devastation, with 161 households displaced by sudden flash floods.
The Kenyan government is actively responding to the crisis, deploying resources for search and rescue efforts and offering aid to the displaced communities.
CS Murkomen’s Warning to Kenyans
In the wake of devastating flash floods that claimed 45 lives in Mai Mahiu, Naivasha Constituency on Monday, Roads and Transport Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen issued a strong plea to Kenyans. He urged them to strictly adhere to all safety directives issued by national and county governments in order to prevent further loss of life.
“This is not a joke anymore,” CS Murkomen stressed during a visit to the disaster zone. “These are the lives of people.”
Highlighting the seriousness of the situation, he implored Kenyans to follow instructions from authorities without disregard. This includes heeding evacuation orders and avoiding crossing flooded roads, rivers, or any other location designated as hazardous.
“When we ask you to move to a particular place, please move,” CS Murkomen emphasized. “When we tell you not to cross flooded areas, kindly do so and help the nation tame this crisis.”
The CS assured Kenyans that the government and multi-agency teams are working closely with county governments to bolster search and rescue efforts in Mai Mahiu and other flood-stricken regions across the country. He also confirmed that critical supplies, including food and water, are being dispatched to affected areas.
As rivers burst their banks and infrastructure sustains damage, the death toll from the floods continues to climb.
Kenya Postpones School Opening Due to Flooding
The Ministry of Education announced a one-week delay in the school reopening date due to the ongoing heavy rains and resulting floods that have impacted various parts of the country. Students originally scheduled to report back on Monday, April 29, will now begin the second term on May 6, 2024.
Education Cabinet Secretary Ezekiel Machogu made the announcement after the ministry collected data from schools nationwide to assess the impact of the weather.
“A significant number of schools across the country have been adversely affected by the heavy rains,” Machogu said in a statement. “The safety of our students and staff is our top priority, and we cannot reopen schools until proper measures are in place to ensure their well-being.”
The severe weather has caused widespread flooding, damaging schools and hindering transportation in many regions. The floods have tragically claimed over 70 lives and displaced numerous families who have sought refuge in schools and public buildings.
This delay will allow schools time to address any flood damage and ensure a safe learning environment for students and staff upon their return.
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