Africa-Press – Kenya. The government has issued an urgent alert after River Nyando overflowed at Ahero Bridge along the Kericho–Awasi–Kisumu Road, creating hazardous conditions for motorists and other road users.
Speaking on behalf of the Multi-Agency Emergency Response Secretariat, Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura said the river has burst its banks, with water levels continuing to rise.
He said the advisory is particularly critical at night, when it may be difficult to gauge the strength and depth of the water.
“All motorists and road users along this route are advised to use alternative routes. Traffic to and from Kisumu should divert at Timboroa through Lesos to Kapsabet–Chavakali–Kisumu until the situation stabilises. Exercise extra caution, especially during the hours of darkness, as the depth and strength of the flowing water may not be easily visible.”
The government confirmed that it is closely monitoring the situation and will provide further updates as necessary.
The government spokesman urged road users to comply fully with the directive and prioritise safety.
At least 81 people have died, and thousands have been displaced as devastating floods continue to wreak havoc across Kenya, with 21 counties now affected, according to the Ministry of Interior and National Administration.
Data released on March 22 showed that seven people remain missing while 68,975 homes have been displaced amid ongoing heavy rains pounding several parts of the country.
Counties hardest hit include Nairobi, Kisumu, Narok, Kiambu, Migori, Siaya, Makueni, Busia, Wajir, Kisii, Homa Bay, Taita Taveta, Baringo, Kajiado, Kitui, Kwale, Machakos, Kericho, Embu, Tharaka Nithi, and West Pokot.
The floods have severely disrupted essential services, with roads and bridges rendered impassable, power outages reported in several regions, and water supply systems damaged.
Schools have also been affected, compounding the humanitarian crisis.
Authorities said key infrastructure has suffered significant damage, including widespread flooding of residential areas, destruction of farms, and inundation of markets and businesses, raising concerns over food security and livelihoods.
Regional data indicated that Nairobi has recorded the highest number of fatalities at 37, followed by the Eastern region with 21 deaths and the Rift Valley with 8.
The Nyanza region has reported seven deaths, while the Coast region has recorded five. The central region has three fatalities, with no deaths reported so far in the Western region.
The government, alongside agencies such as the Kenya Red Cross Society and National Disaster Operations Centre, is coordinating response efforts, including rescue operations, humanitarian aid distribution, and infrastructure restoration.
The Kenya Meteorological Department warned that the country should brace for continued heavy rainfall, flash floods, and storm hazards during the early part of the long rains season.
