The government has released an update on the devastating effects of the ongoing October–November–December short rains, which continue to cause flash floods, landslides, loss of life, and widespread damage across several parts of the country.
In one of the worst-hit regions, a landslide in Machember Sub-location, Mukurtwo Location, on Friday night claimed at least 13 lives following hours of heavy rainfall.
Search and rescue operations are still underway under difficult conditions, with access roads blocked by mudslides, including the Kapsowar–Chesoi Road, which has been completely cut off.
Authorities confirmed that 19 people have been rescued, while several others are receiving treatment at Chesongoch Mission Hospital.
The government has deployed aerial support, emergency teams, and first responders to assist with evacuation, medical aid, and surveillance.
In Kisumu West Sub-county, a 15-year-old boy drowned after being swept away by rising waters along River Obonyo in Kapounja, underscoring the growing human toll of the rains. Officials have conveyed condolences to the affected families.
Flooding in Tana River County has submerged 67 households in Dhuhush, Lebille, Bultobanta, and Bangale, killing 170 goats and sheep and one camel. In Garissa County, about 300 goats were reported lost in Gutho area, Shimbirey Location.
In Kisumu Central and East sub-counties, more than 340 households in Kapuothe, Nanga, Dunga, Onjweru, Kanyawade, Kaloo, Kodie, Alar, and Kowuore have been affected.
Laikipia County has also reported flooding, with 89 families displaced around Lobere Dam after multiple dams overflowed overnight.
In Mombasa, residents of Mburukenge and Kaa Chonjo informal settlements have been affected by localized flooding, attributed to incomplete stormwater drainage systems.
The Kenya Meteorological Department has warned that heavy rainfall will persist in several regions, increasing the likelihood of more flooding and landslides, particularly in hilly and riverine areas.
A multi-agency response team comprising National Government Administration Officers, the National Police Service, Kenya Red Cross, and relevant ministries is coordinating humanitarian relief and disaster response in the affected counties.
The public is urged to avoid flooded roads and rivers, move away from landslide-prone slopes, and follow official advisories from the Kenya Meteorological Department, Ministry of Interior, and County Disaster Units to safeguard lives and property during this rainy period.
ALSO READ: NACADA seizes 50,000 litres of Kangara, 100 litres of Chang’aa in major Kericho operation
