The Kenyan government has reported that 21 fatalities resulted from a landslide in the western region of the country following heavy rainfall. Interior Minister Kipchumba Murkomen mentioned that the bodies have been transported to a nearby airstrip after the incident in Marakwet East late Friday night. He noted that over 30 individuals remain unaccounted for, as they have been reported missing by their families. Additionally, 25 individuals with serious injuries were airlifted for further medical treatment.
The Kenyan Red Cross is assisting with rescue coordination, indicating that many affected areas are currently inaccessible due to mudslides and flash flooding. The government suspended search and rescue operations on Saturday evening but plans to resume them on Sunday. Murkomen highlighted that preparations for delivering food and non-food relief items to the victims are underway, with military and police helicopters on standby for transportation.
Kenya is presently experiencing its second rainy season, which typically includes weeks of wet weather, differing from a more extended period of heavy rains earlier in the year. Authorities have urged residents near seasonal rivers and landslide-affected areas to seek safer locations.
In neighboring Uganda, flash flooding and landslides have also led to casualties since last Wednesday. The Uganda Red Cross reported that another mudslide occurred in Kapsomo village, resulting in four deaths. The organization noted that continuous heavy rainfall has caused significant flooding, affecting numerous villages near riverbanks in the Bulambuli District and leading to overflowing rivers. This has resulted in extensive damage to homes, agricultural fields, and community infrastructure.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c20eeqn2qlyo?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss