A brief but intense storm swept through Kisumu on Thursday evening, October 8, damaging buildings, tearing off rooftops, and bringing down trees and billboards in several areas.

🇰🇪 Breaking It Down

The heavy rains reportedly lasted less than 30 minutes but caused sections of walls to collapse, damaged parked vehicles, and left debris scattered along roads, while fallen branches also affected power lines.

Reports on Friday morning indicated that in the aftermath, part of the Jubilee Jumbo Hardware warehouse along Obote Road had collapsed, attracting crowds, with claims that goods were looted during the commotion.

The damage has heightened concerns over the anticipated El Niño rains and the ability of buildings and drainage systems to withstand heavier downpours.

📌 What You Need to Know

Kisumu residents have raised concerns over the need for wider measures to protect lives and property as rainfall intensifies.

County Commissioner Ramadhan Mwabudzo said the county administration and city planning department would inspect buildings and billboards to assess their ability to withstand severe weather.

Authorities also assured that efforts were ongoing to clear blocked drainage systems and sewage channels.

Mwabudzo urged landlords and tenants to inspect their buildings, warning that weak or poorly maintained structures could endanger traders, customers and other people nearby.

The incident prompted the Kenya Meteorological Service Authority (KMSA) to issue a warning, reminding Kenyans to take precautions as the October–December rainfall season continues.

Members of the public have been advised to keep up with official weather updates and warnings and avoid outdoor activities during heavy storms to reduce the risk of injury.

📰 Source: Kenyans.co.ke