Death toll from Kenya floods rises to 76

By Andrew Wasike

NAIROBI, Kenya (AA) - The death toll in Kenya from floods caused by heavy rains has risen to 76, the country’s government spokesperson said.

"Since the onset of these rains, beginning 1 March 2024, we deeply regret to announce the tragic loss of an additional 6 lives in the last 12 hours bringing the total to 76," Isaac Mwaura said at a news conference.

Mwaura added that 29 Kenyans have been injured and 19 persons have been reported missing.

He said that police and the military have been deployed to provide assistance and support in affected areas.

Kenya has experienced relentless rainfall accompanied by severe storms and above-average precipitation during the ongoing March-April-May (MAM) long rainy season.

The Kenya Meteorological Department on Saturday issued warnings, urging the public to prepare for even heavier rainfall in several regions, notably in the Rift Valley, highlands West, and East of the Rift Valley, including Nairobi, Southeast Lowlands, Lake Victoria Basin, and the coastal region.

The ongoing floods have taken a toll on all 47 counties, leading to widespread displacement, destruction of property and infrastructure, and the tragic loss of lives.