Synopsis
At least six fatalities have been reported in Nairobi due to flash floods caused by heavy rainfall. The ongoing disaster has prompted evacuations and raised concerns among local authorities as rescue operations continue to locate missing individuals.Key Takeaways
- Six confirmed deaths in Nairobi from floods.
- Heavy rains are expected to continue, increasing risk.
- Over 60,000 people affected by the flooding.
- Rescue operations ongoing for missing persons.
- Evacuations are being conducted in high-risk areas.
Nairobi, April 24 (NationPress) A minimum of six individuals have lost their lives in Kenya's capital, Nairobi, as flash floods, caused by intense rainfall, have ravaged various neighborhoods over the last two days, according to officials.
Nairobi Police Chief George Sedah cautioned on Wednesday that the number of fatalities might increase, with more residents potentially swept away in the aftermath, which has left substantial damage to properties, as reported by Xinhua news agency.
Among the deceased were a mother and her two children who tragically perished in the Mathare slums when a boulder crashed onto their residence.
Initial investigations reveal that the overflowing river had eroded the soil, compromising the structure and causing the rock to fall on the house while the family was asleep.
This incident has led authorities to evacuate residences that are vulnerable to similar disasters.
Three additional fatalities were reported, including one in the Mukuru Kwa Reuben slums, where individuals were swept away by the floodwaters. One body was discovered after drowning in the Ngong River at Likoni Bridge in South B. The second body was retrieved from floodwaters along Jogoo Road.
In Dandora Phase 5, a young schoolgirl drowned while trying to navigate a flooded tributary of the Nairobi River using a makeshift bridge. A local rescuer who attempted to save her also went missing. Numerous others are reportedly unaccounted for, with teams actively engaged in locating flood victims.
Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja stated that over 60,000 residents have been impacted by the floods.
Floodwaters have submerged multiple homes, displacing more than 500 individuals throughout the city.
The government has assembled several teams to assist with flood relief, including groups focused on clearing blocked drainage systems to expel water.
In reaction to the floods, local authorities have initiated evacuations for residents living in areas at risk of flooding or rockfalls.
The Kenya Meteorological Department has predicted ongoing heavy rains in the upcoming days and is urging residents to remain vigilant to avoid further fatalities.
Much of the nation continues to endure rainfall, with forecasts indicating that showers and thunderstorms could persist through the weekend.
