· · ·

Death toll rises to 24 as heavy rains trigger landslides in Kenya

death-toll-rises-to-24-as-heavy-rains-trigger-landslides-kenya

The death toll has increased to 24 after a rain-induced landslide on November 22, 2019, in West Pokot county, Kenya. Villages have also been flooded, and at least one bridge was damaged. The severe weather is being influenced by the very strong, positive Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD) predicted to affect parts of Africa particularly Eastern regions from October to December.

West Pokot county commissioner Apolo Okello told journalists that heavy rains made the search operations more difficult but rescue teams are trying their best. Rescue efforts had to be delayed due to roads and bridges being cut off after streams became raging torrents.

Two children were pulled out alive from the ruins of their mud-covered homes, and both have been rushed to the hospital.

"Seven people of the same family were buried alive in the Nyarkulian area, Pokot South and 24 were buried alive in Muino area, Pokot Central sub-county," said Okello.

According to the local administrators, more people and animals could still be trapped.

Deputy President William Samoei Ruto addressed the situation on his social media account, expressing his condolences and urging residents in vulnerable locations to stay alert.

The landslide occurred after weeks of destructive rains and flooding across East Africa. The violent weather has prompted hundreds of thousands in Somalia to evacuate, as well as in South Sudan where floodwaters engulfed major roads. In parts of Ethiopia and Tanzania, fatalities were reported due to flash floods and mudslides.

YouTube video

Featured image credit: KTN News Kenya/YouTube

Share:

Commenting rules and guidelines

We value the thoughts and opinions of our readers and welcome healthy discussions on our website. In order to maintain a respectful and positive community, we ask that all commenters follow these rules:

  • Treat others with kindness and respect.
  • Stay on topic and contribute to the conversation in a meaningful way.
  • Do not use abusive or hateful language.
  • Do not spam or promote unrelated products or services.
  • Do not post any personal information or content that is illegal, obscene, or otherwise inappropriate.

We reserve the right to remove any comments that violate these rules. By commenting on our website, you agree to abide by these guidelines. Thank you for helping to create a positive and welcoming environment for all.

Leave a reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *