Kenya Red Cross Issues Warning as Heavy Rains Intensify, Says Rescue Should Be Last Resort
The Kenya Red Cross has warned Kenyans against waiting until disaster strikes before taking action, saying rescue operations should be the last resort as heavy rains begin hitting parts of the country.
The organisation says it is strengthening its emergency response ahead of the expected intensification of rainfall in November, when the risk of flooding, displacement and loss of lives could increase.
The warning comes as several areas record significant rainfall, raising concerns about the safety of communities living in flood-prone zones.
Nyeri recorded 147.8 millimetres of rainfall over seven days, the highest amount reported during that period. Although Nairobi is forecast to receive light rainfall for now, the situation could change as the rainy season progresses.
Red Cross Maps 143 Additional Sites Ahead of Possible Flooding
The Kenya Red Cross says it has trained water-rescue responders, conducted multi-agency simulation exercises and mapped out 143 additional operational sites to strengthen its preparedness.
The sites are intended to help emergency teams reach affected communities without being cut off when roads become impassable or flooding disrupts access.
However, the organisation has cautioned that some disasters can exceed the capacity of response teams, making early preparation essential.
It wants Kenyans to take precautions before conditions deteriorate, rather than wait until they need to be rescued or evacuated.
The concern is informed in part by the devastating 1997-1998 El Niño floods, which caused widespread destruction, displacement and loss of life in Kenya.
Red Cross Appeals to Employers as Heavy Rains Threaten Travel
The organisation is also urging employers to consider flexible working arrangements whenever heavy rains make travelling dangerous.
The move could help reduce the risks faced by workers who must navigate flooded roads and other hazardous conditions during periods of intense rainfall.
The Red Cross says public cooperation will be critical as emergency teams prepare for possible disasters.
Residents are being urged to remain alert, take weather warnings seriously and avoid putting themselves in situations that could require emergency evacuations.
The Kenya Red Cross emergency hotline is 119 for those needing emergency assistance.
