Since heavy rains began, 11 people have lost their lives and more than 2,000 people have been evacuated due to flooding in Narok South District.
Of the 11 people who died, Narok South District Deputy Chief Felix Kisal said four people were family members killed in a landslide in Sagamian, and two others were struck by lightning in the Ngoben area.
Two other children were killed in a landslide in Chepalungu, and three others drowned. “It is painful to lose the lives of our people. This is a big number and we don't want to lose any more lives,” Kisal said.
Administrators said evacuated households were moved to safer areas such as schools and churches.
Partners including the national government, county government and Kenya Red Cross Society are providing relief food to affected families.
He urged residents to remain vigilant and stay away from areas at risk of flooding.
Meanwhile, a somber atmosphere prevailed in Siribwet village in Nessuite, Nyoro district, Nakuru state, after villagers woke up to the news of the death of two brothers who were swept away by the violent floods of the Ndarugu River.
Chief Douglas Mutai said a search and rescue operation had been launched and divers were working hard to recover the bodies of the 15-year-old and 17-year-old sisters.
The two were crossing a river with a friend when they slipped and fell into the swollen river. The friend struggled to swim, but the girls drowned.
The girls, identified as Sharon Chepunechic, 17, and Faith Cheptoo, 15, were seventh and sixth grade students, respectively, at Tegitech Elementary School.
Mutai urged residents to stay away from overflowing rivers and to be extra cautious as heavy rains could cause riverbanks to burst.
As schools are scheduled to resume learning next Monday, Mutai also urged parents to accompany their children whenever there are reports of flooded areas to ensure they receive proper guidance and return home safely. I advised him to make such arrangements.
