The Nairobi County has issued a series of directives in response to the recent heavy rainfall that has led to flooding in various parts of the city over the weekend.
Governor Johnson Sakaja, through a press release dispatched to media outlets, has assured residents of the city that necessary actions are being taken to address the flood situation.
Among the steps being implemented to mitigate the effects of the floods, Sakaja revealed that the county’s mobility and works team is collaborating closely with the Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) to ensure the accessibility of roads.
Furthermore, the county executive affirmed that all emergency response units, including the Nairobi City Water and Sewerage Company (NCWSC), health and wellness, nutrition and mobility, as well as works and disaster management teams, have been dispatched to affected regions to manage the crisis.
Emphasizing the county’s dedication to tackling the challenges posed by the heavy rains, Sakaja urged residents to exercise vigilance and caution to safeguard themselves and their belongings, particularly advising caution for those residing near riverbanks. Additionally, he advised residents in areas encroaching upon rivers to evacuate promptly.
The county urged the public to heed warnings and guidance from relevant authorities, advising against unnecessary travel in flood-prone zones. County Government Emergency Services are on standby to provide essential assistance, with a hotline number (1508) available for emergencies.
Disruptions occurred following the heavy rainfall, resulting in one fatality and an ongoing search for a missing child in Kibra sub-county.
In addition to loss of life, the floods caused significant disruptions to transportation and movement within the city. Notably, areas such as Rada Odinga Road and the Langata Road junction (near T-mall) experienced flooding due to the Ngong River overflowing. However, drainage systems are functioning, allowing water to recede. Other affected routes include Uhuru Highway, Enterprise Road, OleOdume Road, Ojijo Road, Langata South Road, James Gichuru, among others.