The Kenya Red Cross has released safety guidelines during floods following several death reports and heavy rains experienced in the country.
The Kenya Meteorological Department has in the past days issued several statements cautioning Kenyans of expected flooding from heavy rains accompanied by gusty winds.
According to the Kenya Red Cross, rainfall is expected to persist across the nation, with particularly heavy rainfall predicted in various regions.
These regions include; the Central Highlands, Western Kenya, Rift Valley, South-Eastern lowlands, Coast, North-Eastern and North-Western Kenya.
Safety Measures to Observe During Floods;
Evacuate Immediately to Elevated Areas in Case of Flooding
On Tuesday, the National Disaster Operation Centre issued a directive informing residents surrounding the Seven Forks Dam about spillage concerns residents living in low areas of Garissa, Lamu and Tana River counties were advised to vacate to higher grounds.
Avoid Walking or Driving over Flood Waters. Just One Foot of Moving Water Can Sweep Your Vehicle Away
On Tuesday, a bus ferrying 51 passengers from Wajir to Nairobi was carried away by flood water along the Garissa-Mwingi road.
Just six inches of moving water can knock you down. Use a stick to test depth.
A police officer on March 25 was swept away by floods after rescuing four people trapped following flooding at Nairobi’s Country Bus station.
Avoid parking or activities along streams, and rivers, during heavy rainfall.
Following the flash floods, the MET department has advised Kenyans to take precautions when crossing bridges, as several water bodies might overflow.
Over 700 people were rendered homeless in Mwea after Rive Thiba broke its banks.
The National Disaster Operation Centre has warned residents living around the Seven Forks Dam to relocate to higher grounds. In a directive released on Tuesday, the department warned of a possible overflow following the heavy rains.
Avoid downed power lines and muddy waters where power lines might have fallen.
Exposed power lines that have electricity running through them can easily electrocute a person. Therefore, in instances where power lines have collapsed, people are advised to inform Kenya Power to get them rectified.
In relation, switch off the electricity at the main switch if the house is flooded to avoid electrocution or fires.
Listen to designated TV or radio stations to stay updated on the rains and flooded areas.
Always be informed. Watch out for news updates on areas to avoid during heavy rainfall, and directives from relevant authorities.
