We feel deeply saddened by the ongoing floods which continue to affect many communities in Kenya. Our thoughts are with those who have lost loved ones, homes, and jobs because of this disaster. Regrettably, 6 fatalities have been reported in the last 24 hours, (1 adult in Kilifi; 3 adults in Taita Taveta, 1 adult in Narok and 1 adult in Homa Bay.), raising the toll to 160 deaths. We strongly advise members of the public to remain vigilant, observe flood alerts and cooperate with our evacuation teams.
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. We are concerned and planning effectively as the heavy rainfall in specific areas threatens to exacerbate the ongoing flooding.
Approximately 529,120 persons from 105,824 households have been displaced by the ongoing floods. The government has thus set up 9 additional camps (5 in Tana River, 1 in Migori, 1 in Homa Bay and 2 in Voi) to accommodate the displaced citizens. The 352 refugees earlier
displaced from Kakuma Refugee Camp have also been relocated.
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. Relief food destined to this area is in Sololo town already, and the government is working to have them airlifted or airdropped to their destinations.
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The floods have also affected school infrastructure in Baringo, Elgeyo Marakwet, Embu, Garissa, Homa Bay, Kiambu, Kilifi, Kisii, Meru, Mombasa, Nairobi, Nakuru, Samburu, Murang’a, Taita–Taveta, Tana River and West Pokot Counties.
129 Blocks of toilets/latrines are submerged, 31 school buildings have collapsed,36 schools are submerged, 31 schools are inaccessible, 5 schools are hosting Internally Displaced Households, 28 schools had experienced destruction of learning and teaching materials while another 16 reported contaminated water sources.
The toll on health is alarming, marked by a confirmed cholera outbreak that has affected 105 individuals, resulting in 3 fatalities in Lamu County. Moreover, access to healthcare in 49 facilities nationwide remains compromised due to inaccessibility.
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. For emergency incidents and further assistance, citizens are encouraged to contact the National Disaster Operations Centre through the toll-free line: 0800721571.
