El Nino deaths hit 160

By Peter Ochieng

At least six more people have lost their lives in various parts of the country due to El Nino-induced deaths, in the last 24 hours.

The latest figures now take the death toll to 160, since the country started witnessing heavy rainfall in October, 2023.

During a press address on Tuesday, government spokesperson Isaac Mwaura said the deaths were reported in four counties. They are Kilifi (1), Taita Taveta (3), Narok (1), and Homa Bay (1).

In additional, Mwaura, said about 529,120 people from 105,824 households have so far been displaced. As such, the government has set up 9 more camps to accommodate victims of floods in Tana River, Migori, Homa Bay and Voi.

The government spokesperson said the rains have created a negative impact on infrastructure, with numerous roads being rendered impassable. “Weather forecasts indicate continued rainfall in the Central Highlands, Western Kenya. Lake Victoria Basin, South-Eastern lowlands, and the Coast this week (5th-11th December). Conversely, dry conditions are expected in North-Eastern and North-Western Kenya except Garissa where occasional rainfall is anticipated.”

“The impact on infrastructure is significant, with numerous roads rendered impassable, disrupting transportation of people and relief efforts. For instance, Ambalo, Laaqi and Badan Rero areas of Sololo sub-county in Marsabit County are completely marooned,” he stated. According to Mwaura, heavy flooding has caused a Cholera outbreak in Lamu county. Three people have so far been reported dead.

“A concerted push to distribute essential supplies, including food and non-food items, continues by road and through airlifts and airdrops in inaccessible areas in 19 affected counties. Evacuation efforts are also ongoing, with Kenya Navy Boats and Kenya Coast Guard Services mobilized under the ‘Dhibiti Mafuriko’ operation. We urge citizens to remain vigilant, adhere to safety guidelines, and stay informed about weather alerts, especially in flood-prone regions.”

School infrastructure in at least 17 counties have also been affected by the floods. The counties are Nakuru, Samburu, Murang’a, Taita Taveta, Tana River and West Pokot, Baringo, Elgeyo Marakwet, Embu, Garissa, Homa Bay, Kiambu, Kilifi, Kisii, Meru, Mombasa, Nairobi and Nakuru.