The government has announced plans to evacuate Kenyans living in high-risk areas ahead of the El Niño rains.

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In a statement on Tuesday, September 1, the Ministry of Interior and National Security called on Kenyans living in high-risk areas to prepare for evacuation and move to safer grounds when directed, as the country braces for the anticipated El Niño rains.

According to the Ministry, evacuation is part of its seven measures put in place to strengthen preparedness for the October-December (OND) rainfall season, which is expected to bring above-normal rainfall across most parts of the country.

The Ministry said preparations are underway to evacuate people living on riparian land and in other high-risk areas.

📌 What You Need to Know

Temporary holding grounds have been identified to accommodate people who may be displaced by flooding and other emergencies.

"Awareness of the evacuation of people living on riparian land and in other high-risk areas is on track, with temporary holding grounds identified to accommodate populations that may be displaced by flooding and other emergencies," the Ministry said.

"We urge those living along river banks, riparian reserves, low-lying areas, areas prone to flash floods and landslides, and other identified high-risk locations to heed evacuation advisories and move to safer ground when directed to do so," it added.

At the same time, the Ministry has mapped areas particularly vulnerable to flooding and other impacts of heavy rainfall to guide preparedness, evacuation and emergency response.

The priority areas include riverine and low-lying areas, coastal regions, highland and landslide-prone areas, arid and semi-arid lands, northern Kenya and urban areas prone to flooding.

Authorities are also clearing and desilting drainage systems, culverts and other water channels to improve water flow and reduce the risk of urban flooding.

📰 Source: Kenyans.co.ke