Kenyans across the city found themselves grappling with the aftermath of heavy rains that pounded most parts of the country on Sunday, March 24. Several roads flooded, including the Nairobi Expressway.
A spot check by The Kenya Times revealed a dire situation, with some sections of the Nairobi Expressway rendered impassable.
Motorists were captured maneuvering flooded sections of roads on elevated road that stretches from Mlolongo to Westlands.
Apart from the Expressway, Kenyatta and Haile Selassie Avenues were also marooned, sparking debate about the city’s drainage system and its disaster preparedness.
Pedestrians on the other hand sought help to crossroads as walkways remained flooded.
They waded through knee-high water, their umbrellas offering little protection against the relentless rain.
Videos that went viral on social media overnight depicted many roads inundated with floodwaters, leaving cars submerged across the city.
Kenyans Concerned about Drainage Systems on the Roads
Kenyans on X have raised concerns on Nairobi Expressway’s lack of a proper drainage system.
Lawyer Donald Kipkorir expressed his dismay on how engineers could design and approve a road without a drainage system terming it as a personal negligence.
“How was Nairobi Expressway designs, construction & commissioning approved without proper stormwater drainage system? What is the role of Kenya Roads Board, National Construction Authority and State Department of Roads?” He posed.
Also Read: Expressway Announces Opening of New Exit
Former Law Society of Kenya President Nelson Havi on the other side humorously advised Kenyans to go back to class four history to understand the meaning of the word Nairobi.
“There is nothing wrong with the flooding Nairobi. The problem is that most of us never read class 4 History. Nairobi is derived from the Maasai word: Enkare Nairofi meaning a clay swamp. The Englishman documented this. Do not build skyscrapers in a swamp,” he said.
Following the heavy rain, the Kenya railways in a statement advised the public of disruption of their services following the floods.
“We wish to notify members of the public that we are experiencing delays with the Commuter Service due to flooding on sections of our line,” Kenya Railways said.
“Our teams are working to restore normalcy. We will advise once normal services resume. We sincerely apologize for any inconvenience caused.”
Also Read: What to Consider During Construction to Avoid Floods
Kenya Red Cross Issues Tips After Nairobi Expressway Floods
Consequently, Kenya Red Cross Society shared flood safety tips with Kenyans after heavy floods were experienced in major parts of the country, especially in Nairobi.
In a statement on Monday 25, the society urged both motorists and pedestrians to take necessary precautions and prioritize their safety during this season.
“With rains pounding various parts of Nairobi County, it is crucial to know how to protect yourself and your loved ones from potential flooding hazards,” the Society said.
Again, the Society advised Kenyans to evacuate immediately to elevated areas in case of flooding, and to use a stick to test depth.
Kenya Red Cross also asked them to switch off electricity at the main switch if the house is flooded, avoid walking or driving through flood waters and avoid parking or activities along streams, rivers during heavy rainfall.
“Avoid downed power lines and muddy waters where power lines may have fallen, listen to designated radio or TV stations to stay updated on the rains and flooded areas and do not drive over a bridge that is flooded,” Kenya Red Cross said.
The Kenya Meteorological Department issued a warning on Sunday 24 to Nairobi residents and those in 29 other counties, advising them to expect heavy rainfall in the upcoming days.
