Heavy rains wreak havoc in Elwak, Mandera County, hundreds of residents displaced
Northern Kenya is currently grappling with the devastating impacts of heavy rainfall, with Elwak town in Mandera County experiencing the worst downpour, leading to widespread flooding and the displacement of numerous residents.
Northern Kenya is currently grappling with the devastating impacts of heavy rainfall, with Elwak town in Mandera County experiencing the worst downpour, leading to widespread flooding and the displacement of numerous residents. The deluge inundated homesteads, schools, mosques, retail shops, and even the recently constructed Elkaru Resort Hotel, as captured in a video obtained by The Eastleigh Voice.
Kulow Maalim Hassan, a teacher in Mandera, shed light on the plight of those residing in collapsible traditional Somali huts in areas such as Finchara, Dana, Elhache, and Power. "The flash floods have forced many people to evacuate and seek refuge on higher ground, often relying on donkey-pulled carts," Mr. Kulow shared, highlighting the dire circumstances faced by the affected communities.
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A flooded section in Elwak Town
With the incessant rainfall persisting for an extended period, concerns have been raised about the possibility of the anticipated El Niño weather phenomenon. The prolonged downpour has exacerbated the challenges faced by the residents and amplified the risks of flooding across the region.
In Hagardera refugee camp, a similar narrative unfolded as heavy rains disrupted daily activities, impacting the lives of over 75,000 refugees residing in the congested camp. Khalif Dubow, the Camp Chairman, expressed grave concerns about the potential outbreak of cholera due to the camp's compromised sanitation infrastructure. He stressed the need for heightened vigilance among health officials and proactive measures to educate the community to prevent the spread of the deadly disease.
"We have witnessed cholera outbreaks during previous heavy rain periods, and it is crucial that we remain prepared to prevent a similar situation from occurring," Chairman Dubow emphasized, urging parents to caution their children about the dangers posed by flooded dams, which have tragically claimed lives in the past.
As the region continues to grapple with the aftermath of the torrential rains, communities, and authorities remain on high alert, working towards ensuring the safety and well-being of all those affected.
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