Kenya Red Cross Responds to Severe Flooding in Nairobi

Nairobi, Kenya — Following Saturday's heavy rainfall, the Kenya Red Cross has activated its tactical teams to assist in search and rescue operations in several flood-affected areas of Nairobi. The Ngong River, which overflowed during the storm, caused significant damage to properties along its banks, impacting hundreds of households.

The Red Cross is currently conducting needs assessments in these areas to determine the best forms of assistance for those affected.

"Last night's downpour has severely impacted hundreds of households along the Ngong River. The situation is dire, with water encroaching onto properties," a Red Cross spokesperson reported.

In addition to the Ngong River area, the Red Cross is also monitoring other affected neighbourhoods including Fuata Nyayo, Kibra, Mukuru Kwa Njenga, Kayole Soweto, Lavington, and Kawangware, where similar flooding issues have been reported.

The Kenya Urban Roads Authority (KURA) has issued a flood warning to motorists, particularly advising them to avoid Raila Odinga Road, which is currently submerged.

KURA has deployed tactical teams to address and mitigate the flooding, particularly on key roads such as Raila Odinga Road, Langata Road near Wilson Airport, and Links Road-Nyali in Mombasa county. Motorists are urged to exercise caution or seek alternative routes until the waters recede.

The Kenya Meteorological Department has forecasted that heavy rainfall will continue across various parts of the country over the next seven days.

Regions expected to experience significant rainfall include the Highlands East/West Rift Valley, Nairobi, Lake Victoria Basin, Rift Valley, South-eastern lowlands, Coast & Off Coast, North-western, and North-eastern Kenya.

Residents and motorists are advised to stay alert, follow updates from local authorities, and prepare for continued adverse weather conditions. The Kenya Red Cross and other emergency services are on high alert to provide necessary assistance and ensure public safety during this period.