East Africa is grappling with a deadly flooding crisis as relentless rains batter the region. Kenya has been particularly hard-hit, with a dam burst near Mai Mahiu in the Rift Valley on Monday, claiming at least 42 lives and pushing the nationwide death toll to over 120 since March.
The heavy rains, exacerbated by the El Nino weather pattern, have triggered flash floods that have submerged roads and neighborhoods across Kenya.
Reports indicate over 130,000 people from 24,000 households have been displaced, many in the capital Nairobi. The situation is so dire that the government has been forced to postpone the reopening of schools by a week to ensure the safety of students and staff.
The Kenya Red Cross is reported to be working tirelessly to rescue survivors and recover bodies. In a tragic incident, the organization is reported to have retrieved two bodies after a crowded boat capsized in the flooded Tana River. Video footage captured the horror of the event, with screams echoing as onlookers watched helplessly.
The crisis extends beyond Kenya’s borders. Neighboring countries like Burundi and Uganda have also reported displacement and casualties due to the relentless downpours.
With the rainy season still ongoing, fears of further devastation are mounting. Urgent action is needed to provide relief to those affected and mitigate the long-term impact of this unfolding disaster.
