In a hurry? Here’s a quick summary…
- The Ministry of Water and Sanitation attributes the Mai Mahiu flash flood, which claimed 71 lives, to a blocked railway line tunnel hindering water flow through River Tongi.
- Government data shows 166 fatalities from flooding nationwide since March, prompting calls for caution among residents in flood-prone areas.
The Ministry of Water and Sanitation has disclosed the cause behind the devastating flash flood in Mai Mahiu, which has claimed the lives of 71 individuals and left many others injured.
The catastrophe, which unfolded in the early hours of Monday morning, saw water engulfing numerous homes, triggering emergency responses from both national and county authorities, who have been stationed at the scene for the past 24 hours.
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In an official statement to the media, Water Cabinet Secretary (CS) Zechariah Njeru attributed the incident to a blocked railway line tunnel obstructing the natural flow of water through River Tongi.
“The channel got blocked due to debris, stones, trees, and soil brought about by the heavy downpour in the area, thereby impeding the downstream movement of water through the River Tongi course and its small tributaries,” stated Njeru.
He further explained that the buildup of pressure caused the river and its tributaries to breach their banks, resulting in the forceful displacement of the railway line and rapid downstream flow, culminating in the widespread destruction witnessed.
Njeru also dispelled reports suggesting the presence of a dam in the affected area, clarifying that the only dam, Matches Dam, is situated upstream, distant from the impacted site.
Across the nation, significant portions have grappled with severe floods in recent days, triggered by intense rainfall, resulting in substantial loss of life, injuries, and displacement.
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As of Monday evening, government statistics indicated that 166 individuals had succumbed to flooding since the onset of heavy rains across most of Kenya in March.
Residents in flood-prone regions have been urged to adhere to precautionary measures for their safety and well-being.