Six individuals residing in Mathare North, Nairobi County, have been reported missing subsequent to their residences being inundated by the relentless downpour and resultant flooding.
The onset of heavy rains on Tuesday night prompted some locals to evacuate their homes, seeking refuge atop rooftops.
George Aguko recounted that the deluge commenced around 2 a.m., as floodwaters from the Nairobi River breached their abodes.
Despite efforts to reach out to the Kenya Red Cross and the County Government for assistance, Aguko lamented receiving no response from the designated helplines.
“After numerous attempts, I resorted to contacting the Kenya police in Ruaraka, who eventually reached out to us the following morning,” Aguko disclosed. “It’s disheartening that the recommended rescue teams failed to heed our pleas. Some individuals are still stranded within their inundated homes, while others have managed to retreat from their rooftops as the floodwaters recede,” he added.
The situation in Nairobi has reached a critical juncture, with the County Government appearing overwhelmed by the magnitude of the crisis. Urgent intervention from national emergency services is imperative to avert further loss of life.
Residents have also reported that electrical cables in the vicinity have been submerged in water, posing additional hazards.
As of the latest update, teams from the Kenya Red Cross and Nairobi County Response have mobilized to Mathare to lead the rescue operations.
Sub County Police Commander Fred Abuga confirmed that rescue personnel are actively engaged in scouring the area for survivors.
