Kenya Met Warns of Potential Landslides Across the Country as Heavy Rains Continue

Landslide experiences in Kiambu and West Pokot counties in 2023.
Landslide experiences in Kiambu and West Pokot counties in 2023.
The Standard
KeNHA

On Friday, April 26, the Kenya Meteorological Department issued a warning regarding potential landslides across the country due to the ongoing heavy rains.

In their advisory, the weather service highlighted that landslides were expected in the Mt Kenya regions, Western Kenya, and the slopes of the Aberdare ranges.

Residents of hilly areas were also urged to exercise caution during the current rainy period.

Those who were likely to face the landslides were also encouraged to move to safer grounds for their safety.

President William Ruto speaking during a Cabinet meeting on March 13, 2024.
President William Ruto speaking during a Cabinet meeting on March 13, 2024.
PCS

Already, President William Ruto directed the National Youth Service (NYS) to provide land which will be used to host Kenyans affected by the floods temporarily.

"People in landslide-prone areas, especially over the slopes of the Aberdare ranges, Mt. Kenya, western and other hilly areas, should be vigilant.

"Strong winds may blow off roofs, uproot trees and cause structural damage. Large waves may affect marine activities. Updates will be provided promptly if there are any changes," read the advisory in part.

Meanwhile, floods have also been projected to continue in some parts of the country especially Nairobi County which has seen some estates marooned by floods.

Consequently, motorists were cautioned against driving in the floods given the recent cases where vehicles have been washed away.

"The water levels in rivers, lakes and dams are expected to remain high. People leaving downstream rivers and along seasonal rivers should be careful since water may appear suddenly even though it may not be raining within the area.

"Residents are advised to avoid driving through, or walking in moving water or open fields and not to shelter under trees and near grilled windows to minimize exposure to lightning strikes," read the advisory in part.

Heavy rainfall is expected to continue for the better part of the weekend with more than 50mm expected to be recorded in Nairobi, Lake Victoria Basin and the Rift Valley.

Nairobi Governor taking a tour of Nairobi estates that were affected by floods over the weekend on April 22, 2024.
Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja taking a tour of Nairobi estates that were affected by floods over the weekend on April 22, 2024.
Photo
Johnson Sakaja