President William Ruto of Kenya has issued a dire warning to residents living in flood and landslide-prone areas, urging them to evacuate immediately. The call comes after a devastating flood in Mai Mahiu, north of Nairobi, where an overflowing reservoir destroyed homes and claimed numerous lives.
Ruto emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating that heavy rains are expected to continue, increasing the risk of further flooding and loss of life. The ongoing rainy season has already resulted in the deaths of at least 170 people, with the disaster in Mai Mahiu being the most catastrophic event so far.
The heartbreaking stories of survivors paint a grim picture of the devastation caused by the floods. Nancy Wanjiku, who lost her brother in the disaster, shared her grief while sitting amidst the wreckage of her parents’ home. Rescue workers are tirelessly searching for more victims, with many families still hoping for the safe return of their missing loved ones.
The government has mobilized resources to assist in the evacuation efforts and provide support to those affected by the floods. President Ruto assured survivors that they would receive assistance in rebuilding their homes, with a focus on relocating them away from high-risk areas.
As the region grapples with the aftermath of the devastating floods, the tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerability of East Africa to extreme weather events exacerbated by climate change. President Ruto’s response underscores the need for long-term solutions to address the challenges posed by unpredictable weather patterns in the region.