The government has moved to activate emergency response mechanisms across the country after the Kenya Meteorological Department warned that heavy rainfall will persist in most parts of Kenya, raising fears of flooding, displacement and disruption of transport.
At least six people were killed following heavy rains experienced in Nairobi on Friday alone while more than 100 cars were damaged in the chaos.
Ministry of Public Service, Human Capital Development and Special Programmes Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku said the is coordinating national disaster preparedness, response and recovery efforts as intense rains continue to pound several regions.
He urged Kenyans to remain vigilant and prioritize safety, especially when travelling on flooded roads or near swollen rivers.
“Members of the public are advised to be cautious on the roads for their safety and that of other road users, and to avoid crossing rivers which may have swollen or broken their banks,” Ruku said.
According to the Kenya Meteorological Department, several counties in western and Rift Valley regions are expected to receive heavier-than-usual rainfall. These include Nandi, Kakamega, Vihiga, Bungoma, Siaya, Busia, Baringo, Nakuru, Trans-Nzoia, Uasin Gishu, Elgeyo Marakwet, West Pokot, Kisii, Nyamira, Kericho, Bomet, Kisumu, Homabay, Migori and Narok.
The forecast also indicates significant rainfall in southeastern counties such as Machakos, Kitui, Makueni, Kajiado and Taita Taveta, as well as coastal counties including Mombasa, Kilifi, Lamu, Kwale and Tana River.
In northern Kenya, Marsabit, Mandera, Wajir, Garissa, Isiolo, Turkana and Samburu counties have also been flagged for heavy downpours.
The warning comes as Nairobi continues to experience intense rainfall that has left several roads flooded and disrupted movement in parts of the city.
Authorities say the heavy downpour has also affected households in low-lying areas, with some residents reportedly displaced after floodwaters entered homes.
To strengthen preparedness and accelerate response measures, CS Ruku announced that the government held an emergency coordination meeting on Saturday at 8:00 a.m.
The meeting brought together key government agencies and emergency responders including the National Police Service, National Youth Service, National Disaster Management Unit, National Disaster Operations Centre, the National Drought Management Authority, Kenya Red Cross Society, and St. John Ambulance Kenya.
Officials from the Nairobi City County Government and the Kenya Meteorological Department will also attend.
Deputy County Commissioners were directed to remain vigilant and immediately report the number of households affected by floods within their jurisdictions so that assistance can be deployed swiftly.
The government has also instructed all sub-counties to establish public information desks, emergency response and assistance centres, and rapid response stations in every division to support rescue and relief operations.
Authorities say the measures are aimed at ensuring faster response to emergencies and improved coordination as the country braces for continued heavy rains.
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