Floodwater has swept into villages in Tana River County after a seasonal river at Wardesa burst its banks following heavy rain. The Kenya Red Cross Society said more than 300 households are affected in Eldera, Kono Ramadha and Mata Wardesa. Authorities have told communities downstream to stay alert because water levels remain a threat.
The flooding has also cut off the Kono Ramadha-Mlanjo road, Capital FM and The Star reported. The closure has disrupted movement and access to the affected communities.
The Red Cross said it has sent response teams to assess the situation and establish what residents need right away. The teams are working with the local administration to coordinate emergency help. "Our teams are on the ground assessing needs and working with the local administration to alert communities downstream and guide families on where to go for safety," the agency said.
According to The Star, authorities and aid agencies will assess the damage. They will then decide whether families need evacuation, temporary shelter, food or other emergency support. The Red Cross said its response will depend on these assessments as it works to prevent further loss of life.
Residents in flood-prone areas have been urged to follow safety guidance from local administrators. They have also been told to avoid crossing flooded roads and waterways. The Star noted that Tana River County is especially exposed to flooding during intense rain. Seasonal rivers and the Tana River basin put settlements and infrastructure at risk.
The incident has raised concerns for families living close to seasonal waterways, The Star reported. More rain could make the situation worse.