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Avoid unnecessary travel, Kenyans told as heavy rains damage roads

A section of the B-9 road Mandera-Rhamu Road, which was cut off by floods for 12 hours, following heavy rains on April 22, 2024. (Photo: Adan Mohamed)

By Mary Wambui | 04 May 2024

Kenyans have been strongly urged to avoid unnecessary travel and follow advisories from the government and local authorities as heavy rains continue to wreak havoc across the country.

In a statement, the Interior ministry said that as the heavy rain persists, residents and travellers are advised to exercise caution while using roads due to severe flooding and other hazardous conditions.

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In the Nyanza, Western, Rift Valley, and Eastern regions, several roads have been rendered impassable due to water overflows and road cutoffs. They include the Kapenguria-Lokichar-Lodwar highway, the Nakuru-Eldoret Road at Timboroa market, and the Oletepesi-Magadi Road.

Those in Nairobi and other urban areas were warned of increased water stagnation that has led to the emergence of potholes and further deterioration of damaged roads.

Accumulated debris has blocked culverts and drainage systems and has exacerbated water stagnation and flooding as strong water currents erode some roads, making them dangerous for vehicles.

Urban area drainage systems are overwhelmed, with several manholes becoming hazardous.

In the Coast and North Eastern regions, many coastal and frontier roads are partially flooded. Habaswein-Abakore-DDadaab Road remains a no-go zone as key infrastructure sustains damage, complicating travel and transport.

"The warning is still on for the Tana River bridge in Mororo Area and the Garissa-Madogo Road Central Region," the statement added.

The heavy rains have further triggered landslides, especially in hilly areas, increasing the risk of accidents.

"The government is carrying out assessments of damaged roads and mobilising resources to address critical sections and restore safe travel. In the event of a flood emergency, please contact the National Disaster Operations Center (NDOC) immediately via the toll-free number: 0800721571," the statement says.

According to Saturday's rainfall forecast, light to moderate showers are expected in various parts of the country, and isolated heavy to very heavy downpours are likely over the Central, Western, Rift Valley, Northeast, and Northwest regions.

The country is bracing itself for heavy rainfall and thunderstorms over 33 counties during this weekend, with floods expected in low-lying areas, riparian areas, and urban areas.

Besides Nairobi, the other counties are in the Central region (Nyeri, Muranga, Kirinyaga, Kiambu, Nyandarua); Rift Valley (Nandi, Bomet, Nakuru, Elgeyo Marakwet, West Pokot, Baringo, Samburu, Turkana, Uasin Gishu, Laikipia, Narok); Western (Kakamega, Vihiga, Busia, Bungoma, and Trans Nzoia); Lake Victoria Basin (Kisumu, Kisii, Nyamira, Migori, Siaya, Homabay); Eastern (Machakos, Embu, Tharaka Nithi, Meru, Marsabit); and Nairobi.

The Kenya Meteorological Department is monitoring strong winds and large ocean waves mostly in Kwale and Kilifi, accompanied by heavy rainfall, said to be occasioned by Cyclone Hidaya.

The Kenya Coast Guard Service, which is responsible for marine operations in territorial and inland waters, is on high alert and will offer assistance in Kilifi, Mombasa, Shimoni, Lamu, Tana River, and Garissa.