Pope Francis addresses Kenya's severe floods; 'I am spiritually close to you'

Taking to Twitter, His Holiness Pope Francis said he is spiritually connected to the people of Kenya and equally disturbed by the natural disasters that have so far the lives of over 160 people.

"I am spiritually close to the people of Kenya at this time when a severe flood has claimed many lives and destroyed vast areas. Let us pray together for all those who suffer the effects of this natural disaster," Pope Francis said.

The Pope's message comes amid floods in Mai Mahiu and Kitengela, and some other parts of the country.

In Mai Mahiu, over 70 people were killed and 28 others missing after an old dam broke its banks and swept homes and property while people were sleeping.

In Murang'a, at least six people were killed when landslides struck the area. Several others were injured.

In Garissa county, over 23 people are still missing after a boat they were travelling in on the swollen Tana River capsized. Rescue operations are still underway.

Several roads have also been closed due to flooding, hindering movement of people and goods.

In Kitengela, six people were rescued on Wednesday morning after their houses were submerged.

The Athi River-Namanga Road was closed following heavy flooding. Other roads partially closed were Eastern bypass, Thika bypass and Enterprise Road in Industrial Area Nairobi.