Flood alert in Uasin Gishu as torrential rains persist

A worker removes chairs from a hotel affected by floods in Elgon View, Eldoret city

Uasin Gishu government has issued an alert to residents in flood-prone areas to relocate as heavy rains continue to pound the region.

Roads executive Abraham Serem said those who have encroached on riparian land along rivers and swamps have been advised to move to safer zones.

“We have assessed several areas and urged those affected to relocate immediately, as heavy rains are causing floods in some regions,” he said.

The warning came after two hotels and more than 20 families were displaced when floods swept through parts of Eldoret City, when River Sosiani burst its banks.

Homes and institutions near the river, particularly in Elgon View estate, were among the hardest hit.

Serem said other affected areas include Ngeria, Megun and parts of Racecourse.

He said the county had launched public awareness campaigns on risks associated with flooding, including malaria and waterborne diseases.

County teams from disaster management and public health departments have been deployed to monitor the situation and sensitise residents.

“We urge those asked to move to comply with the directives, which are aimed at safeguarding lives at risk,” Serem said.

River Sosiani, which cuts across Eldoret City, has burst its banks in several areas.

Uasin Gishu police commander Benjamin Mwanthi also urged residents and businesses operating near the river to move to safer areas.

“We are experiencing heavy rains in many areas, and this is expected to continue for some time. We are asking all those living near the river to relocate until it is safe,” Mwanthi said.

Mwanthi, alongside county commissioner Edison Nyale, visited affected areas to assess the damage.

The Kenya Red Cross Society has also been deployed to support affected residents and assist with relocations.

“So far, no deaths or injuries have been reported, but property has been destroyed where floodwaters swept through homes and institutions,” Mwanthi said.

Governor Jonathan Bii said county disaster management teams were working with other agencies to respond to the situation.

“We have deployed teams to assess all parts of the county, especially flood-prone areas,” he said.

Reports indicate water levels in several dams are rising to dangerous levels, raising concerns more families may need to be relocated.

Authorities have also warned residents in mudslide-prone areas, particularly in Kerio Valley, to move to safer ground.

Last year, mudslides claimed more than 40 lives in Elgeyo Marakwet county.

Governor Wisley Rotich said the county was working with various agencies to assess the situation and take necessary action.