AI-generated illustration depicting a building collapse and flooding following heavy rainfall, highlighting the risks of structural failures during heavy rains
The National Disaster Operations Centre (NDOC) has warned Kenyans to remain alert to signs of structural failure as the country prepares for the October-November-December (OND) rains, saying heavy rainfall could weaken buildings and foundations and increase the risk of collapse.
The warning comes as Kenya prepares for an anticipated El Niño-influenced short-rains season, with weather experts cautioning that above-average rainfall could bring flooding, flash floods and other hazards in several parts of the country.
NDOC said buildings that do not meet approved construction standards could be particularly vulnerable when exposed to prolonged or intense rainfall.
“Above normal rainfall may weaken buildings that do not meet approved construction standards, increasing the risk of partial or complete collapse,” the centre said in a public safety message.
The agency also warned that flooding could erode building foundations, potentially compromising the stability of structures and putting occupants and neighbouring communities at risk.
Residents have consequently been advised to pay attention to changes in buildings during periods of heavy rainfall, particularly where structures are already weakened, poorly constructed or located in areas vulnerable to flooding.
NDOC identified large cracks, leaning walls, sinking floors and other visible changes as signs that a building may be unsafe.
Anyone who notices such warning signs has been urged to leave the affected structure immediately and report the matter to the relevant authorities rather than attempting to remain inside or return to retrieve belongings.
The centre also cautioned members of the public against occupying buildings that have already been declared unsafe or structures under construction without the required approvals.
The warning adds a structural-safety dimension to wider government preparations for the anticipated El Niño rains.
In July, counties considered to be at high risk had been urged to activate anticipatory measures ahead of the October-November-December season.
Among the counties identified were Homa Bay, Kisumu and Nakuru, where water levels in Lake Victoria, Lake Turkana, Lake Baringo, Lake Bogoria, Lake Elementaita, Lake Naivasha and Lake Nakuru were reported to be rising.
Disaster Risk Management and Anticipatory Action expert Zachary Misiani warned that the combination of strong El Niño conditions and a positive Indian Ocean Dipole could enhance rainfall and result in an early onset of the season, accompanied by torrential rainfall and flash floods.
“The two signals, the strong El Niño and the positive Indian Ocean Dipole, could enhance the rainfall, triggering an early onset of the season which could begin with torrential heavy rainfall resulting in flash floods over different parts of the country,” Misiani said.
The concerns come after heavy rainfall during previous seasons caused flooding, landslides, damage to homes and other infrastructure in different parts of the country.
