Flash Floods Disrupt Kenya: Roads Cut Off and Vehicles Submerged

Flash floods have struck various regions of Kenya, leading to road closures and the submergence of vehicles, prompting rescue efforts and raising concerns about infrastructure damage and possible fatalities. The heavy rains, believed to be linked to El Niño conditions, have disrupted daily life for many Kenyans.

In Mombasa, the coastal city known for its vibrant port and tourism, torrential downpours resulted in roads being rendered impassable. Many motorists had no choice but to abandon their cars, turning to motorbikes as an alternative means of accessing vital transportation hubs, such as the airport and train station. The flooding in this section of the city has significantly impacted transportation and raised safety concerns for residents and visitors.

Further north, in the Isiolo county, a young man’s life is in jeopardy as he was swept away by floodwaters while riding a motorbike on Thursday. Local communities have mobilized in search and rescue efforts to locate and assist the missing individual.

In a remarkable display of solidarity, the conservation organization Save the Elephants sprang into action, rescuing eight individuals who were trapped in a sinking lorry due to the floodwaters on Thursday. This is not the first instance of a conservation group in Kenya stepping in to aid in flood-related emergencies. Earlier this year, The Sheldrick Wildlife Trust utilized their helicopter to save a stranded driver.

The nation’s meteorological department had previously issued warnings about the likelihood of El Niño rains affecting Kenya and other East African countries starting from mid-October. These rains, if not managed effectively, could lead to flooding, infrastructure damage, and potential loss of lives. Neighboring countries, including Tanzania and Somalia, have also experienced heavy rains and the resultant challenges.

However, Kenyan President William Ruto’s recent declaration on October 22 caused significant controversy. He claimed that the country would not experience El Niño, a natural weather phenomenon, as had been predicted. “The meteorological department has now said there will be no El Niño. We will only have heavy rains, but they will not reach a destructive level,” Mr. Ruto stated.