Two Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) officials have been reported missing after the vehicle they were travelling in was swept away by floods at Ramisi river in Kwale County.
The two were travelling from Lunga-Lunga to Mombasa on Friday, November 17 when the incident occurred.
KRA Acting Southern Region Coordinator Lawrence Siele explained that the river Ramisi over flooded the bridge and swept away the vehicle which was carrying the two officers.
“Two KRA officers have since been reported missing after the vehicle they were travelling in was swept away by ranging floods,” said Siele.
In a statement, Siele noted that the government already launched an intensive search and rescue operation.
Additionally, Siele stated that the safety and well-being of KRA employees remains their first priority and a multi-agency has already been deployed to with all the needed machinery.
Besides, he confirmed that KRA has already informed the family members of the two officers.
“KRA will continuously update the family members, its staff and the public on the progress and outcome of the rescue mission,” he said.
El Nino Floods Coast Floods
Heavy rainfall experienced in several parts of Coastal Kenya has resulted hindered transportation activities, business and resident’s normal lives.
On Saturday, November 18, three people have been killed by floods in Mombasa, over 3,000 households displaced following heavy rainfall in the area.
In addition, the floods have submerged houses, damaged roads, and swept away properties in the affected areas.
In Mombasa, several roads have been rendered impassable following the heavy rains experienced on Friday.
Furthermore, there are also video clips on social media showing individuals swimming to safety and cars fully covered by floods.
Also Read: Floods Unearth Dead Bodies Amid El Nino Rains
Mombasa Governor Update
Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Sheriff Nassir said the last time Mombasa had such huge amount of rain was in 1997.
Also, the governor dismissed claims that the floods were as a result of poor drainage system in Mombasa.
He equally said that the national government must involve the county government in the construction of roads to prevent floods.
“KERRA did not follow drainage guidelines during the construction of some road here that why we must work together to prevent future tragedies,” he said.
Also Read: What to Consider During Construction to Avoid Floods
He affirmed that county government will collaborate with the Kenya Red Cross and political leaders to help the affected families in Bombolulu, Otange and Bamburi areas.
The governor said there are buildings built along drainage lines which has resulted in floods in the county.
“If the problem was drainage, the whole of Mombasa City could have been under water right now,” he said.
He said the county government is focused on helping 3,800 families which have been affected by the floods in Mombasa.
