Floods claim two more lives as death toll reaches 291

Two people died in the last 24 hours as a result of the ongoing floods, bringing the official nationwide death toll to 291, Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura has announced. 

Speaking in Githurai on Thursday, Mwaura added that 75 people have been reported missing nationwide while 188 others have been injured by the torrential downpours.

He added that the floods have displaced 55,631 households affecting approximately 278,155 individuals while 82,552 households, comprising around 412,763 persons, have directly been impacted by the floods.

Furthermore 64 health facilities have been damaged in 12 counties and approximately 168,092 acres of land destroyed.

To support displaced families, the government has established 187 camps across 25 counties, hosting over 3,000 people. Additionally 65,493 people have been integrated into the community following the Nairobi River evacuation exercise

"The government extends its deepest condolences to the affected families and friends and is committed to doing everything possible to alleviate human suffering caused by the flood," said Mwaura.

Additionally, Mwaura stated that weather forecasts have predicted that 31 counties will experience heavy rainfall in coming days.

These counties include; Nyandarua, Nyeri, Murang'a, Kiambu, Kakamega, Bungoma, Busia, Vihiga, Trans Nzoia, Baringo, Samburu, Laikipia, Elgeyo Marakwet, West Pokot, Kericho, Nandi, Bomet, Nakuru, Kajiado and Narok.

The other counties that will be affected are; Kisumu, Homa Bay, Siaya, Kisii, Migori, Nyamira, Meru, Embu, Tharaka Nithi, Machakos and Nairobi.

"The Central Highlands including Nairobi, Western Kenya, parts of North Western, the Lake Victoria Basin and Rift Valley regions are expected to experience more rainfall. Additionally isolated heavy rainfall events may occur in Machakos and Kajiado, while the rest of the country is expected to remain generally dry," he said. 

"There have been 53 reported cases of cholera and the ministry of health, along with the Kenya Red Cross is conducting medical outreach programs in Nyeri, Tana River and Marsabit Counties."

In addition 54 cases of dysentery have been reported at the Nyeri GK prisons and Kimende in Kiambu County has been declared a danger zone and cordoned off following a massive land slide.