Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has warned that residents living in flood-prone parts of Nairobi could be evacuated to temporary holding grounds if the expected El Niño rains pose a threat to their safety.

🇰🇪 Breaking It Down

Speaking during a multi-agency preparedness meeting in Karen, Nairobi, on Thursday, September 24, Kindiki said the government had identified areas where residents may need to be moved as it steps up preparations for heavy rainfall expected from the second and third weeks of October.

Kindiki said the government was working with Nairobi County and national agencies responsible for roads, drainage, urban development and energy to minimise the effects of the expected rains.

“The weather projections point to significant rainfall in Nairobi, which could increase the risk of flooding, damage to roads and drainage systems and possible disruptions to electricity supply,” Kindiki said.

📌 What You Need to Know

“We have identified possible evacuation areas and temporary holding grounds, and we are preparing food, non-food items and medical supplies for residents who may be forced to leave their homes,” he added.

Nairobi County has mapped 227 flood hotspots across its 17 sub-counties, with areas including Mukuru, Pipeline, Imara Daima, Kware, Kibera, Nyayo Highrise, Nairobi West, Madaraka, Lang’ata and parts of Embakasi flagged for close monitoring and possible evacuation support. The county has also identified 27 drop-off points and shelters, mainly schools and public facilities, where residents could be taken if evacuation becomes necessary.

“Residents in high-risk areas will receive alerts and evacuation orders in good time if relocation becomes necessary, and the process will be carried out in an organised manner,” Kindiki said.

He called on Kenyans to remain calm, saying any evacuation would be temporary and intended to protect residents from possible loss of life and property. He also urged those affected to comply with evacuation directives when issued.

The Ministry of Health also recently rolled out an El Niño preparedness plan in 18 high-risk counties, including plans to distribute 10 million treated mosquito nets, while Muthoni said the State Department for Public Health had proposed a monthly national cleanliness day to help prevent disease outbreaks.

The State Department for Energy is meanwhile inspecting power and transmission lines to reduce electricity disruptions caused by heavy rains and falling trees. The government also raised concerns over vandalism of energy infrastructure, which could compound power interruptions during the rainy season.

📰 Source: Kenyans.co.ke