Machakos County, Kenya, is bracing for the anticipated El Niño rains, with Governor Wavinya Ndeti assuring residents that the county is well-prepared to mitigate the impact of potential flooding. According to the governor, the county has already commenced preparations, partnering with relevant stakeholders to ensure a coordinated response to the impending rains. This proactive approach aims to minimize the risks associated with flooding.
Governor Ndeti made these remarks while opening the Kenya Inter-Agency Rapid Assessment (KIRA) training at the Machakos County Disaster Operations Centre. The training aims to equip stakeholders with the necessary skills to respond effectively to emergencies. The governor expressed confidence in the county's preparedness, citing past experiences where the county responded well to floods in partnership with the Red Cross.
The governor urged residents living near riverbanks, low-lying areas, and known flood corridors to take official weather advisories seriously. She advised them to avoid hazardous crossings, keep children away from swollen rivers and other waterways, and stay informed through local and national media channels. Emergency contacts have been shared with the public, and the county will continue to publicize them to ensure timely communication during emergencies.
The Kenya Red Cross Society has also mobilized equipment and strengthened its response teams in anticipation of the rains. George Ndolo, in charge of the Kenya Red Cross Society in the Eastern Region, urged residents in flood-prone areas to move to safer, elevated areas, strengthen their buildings where possible, and keep important documents secure. The organization has increased its response teams and mobilized equipment to high-rainfall-prone areas.
According to Robert Kyalo, Director of the Kenya Meteorological Department in Machakos County, significant rainfall is expected from the third or fourth week of October and could continue into January 2027. Areas such as Mavoko, Athi River, and Kalama are expected to receive substantial rainfall. The department advises farmers to follow weather advisories when making decisions on what to plant and to regularly check the department's weekly and monthly updates.
The meeting comes at a time when the country is preparing for increased rainfall, with stakeholders stepping up measures to minimize the impact of potential flooding and other weather-related emergencies. The Kenya Meteorological Department has been closely monitoring the weather patterns, and the government has been working with various stakeholders to ensure a coordinated response to the anticipated El Niño rains.
Key stakeholders, including the county government, the Kenya Red Cross Society, and the Kenya Meteorological Department, are working together to mitigate the impact of the El Niño rains. Residents are advised to remain vigilant, take necessary precautions, and follow official weather advisories to ensure their safety. The county remains committed to ensuring the well-being and safety of its residents.
Key points
- The county has partnered with stakeholders to prepare for the El Niño rains.
- Residents are urged to take official weather advisories seriously and move to safer areas if necessary.
- Significant rainfall is expected from October and could continue into January 2027.
