Garissa Emergency Response Team Activated To Monitor Floods

Emergency response teams in Garissa have been activated as fear of floods remains an imminent threat coupled with the seven forks dams nearing capacity.

The team’s primary objective is to monitor the situation closely and coordinate efforts to mitigate the potential impact of the impending floods.

The county Department of Special Programs organized a comprehensive stakeholders meeting was convened to devise strategies and mobilize resources effectively on Friday.

The gathering aimed to streamline coordination mechanisms among various stakeholders, ensuring a cohesive approach to address the looming crisis.

The team conducted an overview of the current flood situation and forecasts, facilitating informed decision-making.

Additionally, they discussed resource mobilization strategies to ensure adequate support for affected communities. Identification of high-risk areas and vulnerable populations will also be prioritized, alongside the review and activation of contingency plans.

Governor Nathif Jama in a statement to newsrooms said it was important to enhance collaborative efforts in tackling the challenges posed by the impending floods.

He said swift action and effective coordination are required to minimize the potential impact on the populace.

The relentless downpour across various parts of Kenya has resulted in the tragic loss of at least 13 lives and forced approximately 15,000 individuals from their homes, according to reports from the United Nations.

Meteorologists have warned of continued rainfall until June, concerns grow over the escalating humanitarian crisis.

The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, citing data from the Kenya Red Cross Society, disclosed on Thursday that nearly 20,000 people have been adversely affected by the heavy rains and flash floods that have ravaged the nation since the onset of the wet season in mid-March.

An estimated 15,000 individuals have been displaced, exacerbating the urgent need for assistance.

Kenya, situated in the East African region, has historically witnessed devastating flooding during rainy seasons, particularly in the lake regions and downstream areas of major rivers.

The Kenya Red Cross Society highlighted the disruption caused by floodwaters, with five major roads rendered impassable, including the Garissa Road in northern Kenya.

A harrowing incident occurred when a bus carrying 51 passengers was swept away on Tuesday; fortunately, all passengers were rescued from the perilous situation.

Kenya’s disaster management agency issued flood warnings to residents of Lamu, Tana River, and Garissa counties, which lie downstream of the Tana River.

The breach of dams upstream has heightened the risk of flooding, prompting urgent calls for residents to seek refuge on higher ground to ensure their safety.

Nine out of Kenya’s 47 counties have already reported incidents of flooding, an indicator of the widespread impact of the natural disaster.

Additionally, mudslides have been reported in central regions, with a tragic loss of life recorded in Narok county on Tuesday, where four individuals perished in the western part of the country.