The number of people who have lost their lives due to ongoing floods across the country has risen to 84, as heavy rains continue to wreak havoc in several regions.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the Ministry of Interior confirmed the fatalities, noting that multi-agency rescue teams have been deployed across affected areas to support evacuation and relief efforts. Authorities also reported that at least three people are still missing as search operations continue.
The situation has been worsened by rising water levels in major rivers, with River Nyando in Kisumu County breaking its banks and flooding several surrounding areas. The overflow has affected communities in Kakola, Onjiko, Kochogo, East Kano, Okanja, Kamidumbi and Panadol, among other locations.
Residents living in lower parts of Kakola Ombaka Sub-Location and those near streams such as Awach, Agala, Nyalbiego, Chamrogi and Nyaidho have also been identified as being at high risk.
Emergency response teams, including the Kenya Coast Guard Service, the Kenya Red Cross and county disaster management units, are currently on the ground conducting rescue operations and monitoring the situation closely.
So far, at least 265 households have been rescued and relocated to safer areas. Some of the affected families are currently being sheltered at the Ahero Assistant County Commissioner’s office, Ahero Catholic Pastoral Centre and Ombaka Dispensary.
The Ministry has warned that continued heavy rainfall upstream could worsen the situation, particularly in areas around Okanja, Kamidumbi and Panadol, as well as near Ahero Girls and sections of the Kisumu–Nairobi road.
Elsewhere, residents living along River Tana have also been put on high alert after the river burst its banks, flooding farms and nearby settlements in Asako Village in Tana River County.
In Uasin Gishu County, authorities are assessing flooding along River Sosiani in Lower Elgon View, where rising water levels have already affected residential homes and hospitality facilities.
The government has urged residents in flood-prone areas to remain vigilant and follow evacuation advisories issued by local authorities.
With rains expected to continue, officials say all emergency teams have been placed on high alert to respond swiftly to any further incidents, as concerns grow over the potential for more displacement, destruction of property, and loss of life.
