A devastating dam burst in Kenya’s Mai Mahiu area has further escalated the death toll from ongoing floods, surpassing 120 casualties. The tragic incident claimed the lives of more than 40 individuals, including 17 minors, as the burst dam exacerbated the havoc caused by flash floods.
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Rescue and search operations are underway in Mai Mahiu, where authorities continue to recover bodies and assess the extent of the disaster. The overflow of hydroelectric dams due to heavy rains has posed a significant threat of downstream flooding, amplifying the challenges faced by Kenyan authorities in managing the chaotic conditions.
The Kenya Red Cross has been actively involved in providing assistance to affected individuals, transporting several people to health facilities in response to flash flooding. The relentless downpours, intensified by the El Nino weather pattern, have wreaked havoc across East Africa, exacerbating seasonal rainfall and inundating communities.
Government data revealed that over 131,000 individuals have been displaced, with roads and bridges destroyed nationwide. Despite the challenges, flights at the Nairobi International Airport remain operational, albeit with flooding reported in a road underpass.
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In response to the crisis, the Kenyan government has postponed the start of the new school term by a week, citing the severe impact of the rains on school infrastructure and the safety of learners and staff. The Ministry of Education emphasized the need for comprehensive safety measures before resuming school activities.
The situation in Kenya mirrors similar challenges faced across the region, with nearly 100,000 individuals displaced in Burundi and significant casualties reported in Tanzania. The unprecedented floods follow record rainfall during the late 2023 rainy season, with scientists attributing the intensification of extreme weather events to climate change.
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As East Africa grapples with the aftermath of the floods, urgent efforts are underway to mitigate the impact on affected communities and implement long-term strategies to address the underlying causes of such disasters.
