Local sources from Kenya: BBC, Yahoo Singapore News.
UK coverage: BBC.
Kenya has been hit by a devastating flood that has left scores missing and dozens dead. The flooding, which has been described as the worst in the area, has caused widespread destruction and displacement. According to a government spokesperson, at least 91 people are missing, with 76 of them from the hard-hit town of Mai Mahiu. So far, 71 people have been confirmed dead as a result of the incident. The floods have also led to the displacement of nearly 191,000 Kenyans, with Nairobi County being the worst affected. The government has set up 52 displacement camps to provide temporary accommodation for those affected. The disaster is believed to have been caused by water blowing through a clogged tunnel under a railway bridge. The government has deployed the military to assist in the search and rescue efforts. The ongoing heavy rain and the forecast for continued rainfall threaten to exacerbate the floods. Kenya has been facing a worsening flood crisis due to the combined effects of El Niño and the ongoing long rains. The impact of the recent rains may have been worsened by the hard, dry soils resulting from years of drought. The region of East Africa, including Kenya, is one of the most climate-vulnerable regions in the world. The floods have also affected Tanzania and Burundi. The government is providing food, non-food items, rescue, and evacuation assistance to those affected by the flooding. This tragic event highlights the urgent need for climate change mitigation and adaptation measures to protect vulnerable communities from the increasing frequency and intensity of extreme weather events.
