River Nyando in Kisumu County has burst its banks, triggering widespread flooding that has paralyzed Ahero Town and surrounding areas.
The overflow has submerged the Ahero Bridge, a crucial link on the Kisumu-Nairobi Highway, halting transportation in the area.
Motorists attempting to navigate the flooded bridge face hazardous conditions, with high water levels making passage difficult and dangerous.
Hundreds of households, shops, the local police station, and hospital have been affected by the floods caused by River Nyando.
The flooding has also submerged Ahero market, causing damage to businesses and disrupting local commerce.
In addition to the immediate impact on infrastructure and transportation, the flooding has resulted in the displacement of thousands of residents.
Floods Destruction
Homes have been submerged, forcing families to seek refuge on higher ground.
Schools, including Oseth Primary School in Nyangande, Ahero girls have also been affected by the raging waters.
The situation is compounded by the destruction of sanitation facilities such as latrines, posing a serious health risk to residents.
Moreover, temporary shelters have been erected along roadsides to provide refuge for those displaced by the floods.
Currently, more than 14,000 people have been displaced across Kisumu County, with the worst affected areas including Nyando, Kadibo, Kisumu Central, Nyakach, and Kisumu East sub-counties.
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The Kenya Red Cross in a statement said their team in collaboration with County Government of Kisumu and Kenya Coast Guard Service, is responding to families in distress in Kobura village.
The humanitarian body further noted that almost 20 households are marooned as a result of the floods caused by River Nyando.
“Our response team, with support from the County Government of Kisumu and Kenya Coast Guard Service, is responding to families in distress in Kobura village after the River Nyando in Kisumu broke its banks. Close to 20 households are marooned,” reads the statement by the Kenya Red Cross.
MET Department Issues More Warning on Floods
The Kenya Meteorological Department issued warnings about persistent heavy rains expected to affect various regions, including the Lake Victoria Basin, highlands, lowlands East and West of Rift Valley, Nairobi, and parts of Northeast and Western Kenya.
Residents of these areas are advised to remain vigilant for flash floods and poor visibility.
To facilitate assistance and coordination, the National Disaster Operation Centre has provided contact information for those affected by the floods.
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Residents can reach out through the toll-free number 0800721571, with a dedicated toll-free line 1508 established by the Nairobi County Emergency Operation Centre.
Additionally, 29 people have been injured, and 21 individuals remain missing. The number of displaced households stands at 28,484, affecting approximately 185,297 people across the nation.
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