Ten people die as Nairobi is marooned in floods
The number could rise as rescue teams were still working in the worst-hit parts of the city.
At least 10 people were killed by severe floods that marooned severa ares of Nairobi on Friday, March 6.
Nairobi Police Commander George Seda said eight of the victims were swept away by the raging waters while others lost their lives while trapped in vehicles which were swept away by strong currents.
He said the number could rise as rescue teams were still working in the worst-hit parts of the city.
During the search and rescue efforts, several bodies later found lodged along riverbanks and drainage channels across Nairobi.
In Kitengela, a man was killed when his vehicle was swept downstream while crossing the Kitengela River last night. Police are currently searching for his body.
For several hours, motorists and passengers were stranded as floodwaters marooned key roads. Online videos and photos showed partially submerged vehicles while others being swept away by raging waters
“Most roads and estates were flooded, making it impossible for rescue missions last night,” said Seda.
The unexpected heavy downpour turned streets into rivers in several estates, disrupting transport networks across various neighbourhoods and causing extensive property damage in various parts of the city. More than 100 vehicles damaged with South C, South B and Nairobi West among the worst affected.
Several low-lying neighbourhoods were flooded, with many residents displaced after flood waters entered their homes.
Following the heavy rains, President William Ruto instructed the deployment of a Military Rapid Response Unit to support search and rescue efforts in various parts of the city. Kenya Defense Forces Personnel moved in to help evacuate motorists and passengers from flooded sections.
The Kenya Meteorological Department warned that heavy rainfall will continue across much of the country, raising fears of further flooding, displacement and transport disruption.
Meanwhile, in a move geared at improving coordination during emergencies, the Ministry for Public Service has ordered all sub-counties to establish public information desks, emergency response centres, and rapid response stations in every division.