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by Emmanuel garjiek
Heavy rains across Kenya this month have triggered flash floods that have claimed at least 81 lives and forced thousands from their homes. Authorities warn the situation could worsen as downpours continue.
In Kisumu County, entire villages have been swallowed by rising waters, destroying roughly 1,200 hectares of farmland and wiping out crops. Nyakach has been hardest hit, where the Sondu Miriu River burst its banks, displacing more than 3,000 families. Local chief Seth Oluoch Agwanda described the devastation: “We have lost farmlands due to massive erosion… and many crops,” noting that residents have been relocated to over eight evacuation centers.
Survivors say they are struggling to find shelter. “There is no house that is not flooded,” said Kennedy Oguta, who is trying to protect his family and livestock. Another resident, Sarah Akinyi Onyango, reported families stranded with children in rising waters.
The capital Nairobi has also suffered heavily, with 37 deaths reported and widespread damage to homes and infrastructure. Fatalities have been confirmed in Kiambu, while landslides struck Kasaka.
Officials are urging “extreme caution” as forecasts predict more rain. Scientists emphasize that climate change is intensifying extreme weather patterns, leaving East Africa increasingly vulnerable to destructive floods and prolonged droughts.
