El Niño alert: Government rolls out seven measures ahead of October rains
The Kenyan government has launched a seven-point contingency plan to mitigate the impact of predicted El Niño rains between October and December. Measures include mapping flood-prone hotspots and desilting drainage systems to prevent infrastructure damage and loss of life.
Why it matters
Proactive disaster management is essential for protecting vulnerable populations and critical infrastructure from climate-related extreme weather events.
Heavy rains pounding Nairobi in the past/FILE
The government has announced seven measures to strengthen the country’s preparedness for the anticipated October-December (OND) El Niño rains.
The government asked Kenyans to remain vigilant as above-normal rainfall is expected across most parts of the country.
The Ministry of Interior and National Administration said the rains could trigger flooding, drowning, injuries and fatalities, displacement and isolation of communities, disease outbreaks and disruption of essential services.
Other anticipated impacts include damage to roads and critical infrastructure as well as losses of crops, livestock and livelihoods.
The government said some counties, particularly in Western, Nyanza and North Eastern regions, could experience an early onset of the rainfall season.
“To mitigate the risks, the government is implementing a National Contingency Plan developed jointly with national and county government agencies, humanitarian partners, security agencies and other disaster management stakeholders,” the ministry said.
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