The U.S Embassy in Kenya has issued a severe weather alert for American citizens in Kenya, even as the country grapples with severe flooding caused by heavy rain.
In a statement dated May 1, U.S Embassy in Kenya warned citizens about the ongoing floods that has affected parts of the East African Country.
“Unusually heavy rains have led to flooding, road closures, and dangerous driving conditions in various places across Kenya. Continued heavy rains and localized flooding are expected,” the statement read in part.
The Embassy informed the citizens that the Maasai Mara and Great Rift Valley regions are experiencing heavy flooding, leading to evacuations of some safari camps.
Advise to Americans
Americans travelling within Kenya are advised to check with their tour company and accommodation location to ensure that it is safe to travel.
U.S citizens have also been directed to avoid driving during heavy downpours or through standing water on the road.
“Do not attempt to cross bridges covered in water. Flood waters can sweep vehicles off a road or bridge without warning,” the Embassy said.
Additionally, the citizens have been advised to exercise caution as downed power lines, mudslides, and fallen trees may occur during heavy rain events.
If a road has flooded or is full of debris, Americans are advised to use an alternate route or return to a safe area.
The Embassy further directed citizens to monitor local media for updates and notify friends and family of their safety.
They should also be prepared to shelter in place if conditions in their area worsen.
Also Read: We Are Dying – Kitengela Woman Screams for Help as Floods Swallow Homes
U.K Advisory for Citizens in Kenya
On May 1, the United Kingdom also issued an advisory to British nationals residing in Kenya providing advice on the risks of travel.
In a statement, the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) said the advisory is aimed at helping British citizens make informed decisions amid the ongoing heavy rains and recent incidents of terror attacks witnessed in various parts of Kenya.
The office listed areas where British Nationals are to avoid travelling to within Kenya, further warning that their travel insurance could be invalidated if they go against FCDO advice.
Also Read: Dangers of Driving Small Cars in Flood Water & Tips to Avoid Accidents
FCDO advised against all but essential travel to areas including the Kenya-Somalia border due to recent terrorist attacks and Tana River County due to floods.
Besides, the Office also highlighted travel between the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) to Nairobi City while advising on the use of the Mombasa Road or the Nairobi Expressway.
FCDO advised UK nationals to follow local security measures and use caution while visiting Turkana, West Pokot, Elgeyo-Marakwet, Baringo, Laikipia and Samburu counties.
Do you want to be part of an updated community without the interruptions of unwanted messages? Click the link below and join our WhatsApp Channel!
https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaB3k54HltYFiQ1f2i2C
