Multiple Deaths Reported in Floods as Victims Are Swept Away by Raging Waters

Accident – Death – Obituary News : Residents in Kenya continue to face devastating consequences as floods wreak havoc across the country, resulting in numerous deaths. In response, President William Ruto has directed the Kenya Defence Forces to provide immediate relief to affected residents.

The President expressed deep concern over the loss of 70 lives and the displacement of 36,160 households due to the heavy rains. The situation took a tragic turn this week when three members of a welfare group were swept away by the flooded Muuoni River. The group was heading home in Mutyambua location, Mbitini, Upper Makueni sub-county when the incident occurred. Unfortunately, the bodies of the victims were found downstream, with the first victim, Agnes Munyao, aged 63, discovered 40 kilometers away from where they were crossing.

Two other bodies were found 70 kilometers downstream, near the Wote-Makindu road. Mr. Justus Muli, an eyewitness who found the first body, described how he stumbled upon it while on his way to his shamba (farm). The body was thrown onto a large stone at the riverbank. Mr. Muli immediately alerted the area chief, who then contacted the authorities to retrieve the body.

Tragedy has also struck Tharaka Nithi County, where nine people, including a two-year-old child, have lost their lives to the floods. Tharaka Nithi County Police Commander Zaccheus Ng’eno confirmed that the victims were swept away by swollen rivers and drowned. The deaths occurred in various areas of the county, with three in Tharaka North, two in Tharaka South, one in Igambang’ombe, two in Muthambi, and one in Maara. Ng’eno warned residents against attempting to cross fast-moving rivers and emphasized the need for caution during such extreme weather conditions.

In Kitui, a 12-year-old boy tragically lost his life when their house collapsed during a heavy downpour in Musuani village. The boy’s father, Josphat Mwangangi, managed to rescue three other children who were sleeping in the same room. However, their youngest son remained trapped in the rubble. Despite efforts to save him, the heavy rains hindered their ability to transport him to the hospital, and he passed away shortly after being rescued.

Another devastating incident occurred in Homa Bay, where an 11-year-old boy named Fidel Owino was struck by lightning during a heavy downpour. The incident took place at their home in Nyadenda village, Basa South Location in Rachuonyo East Sub County. Unfortunately, Owino sustained severe injuries and died instantly.

In Embu, two individuals narrowly escaped death when their vehicle stalled at River Mashamba in Makima ward, Mbeere South. Joseph Nzuki and Amos Njue made the life-saving decision to abandon their Toyota Probox to avoid being swept away by the swollen river.

President Ruto has responded to the crisis by allocating Sh2.4 billion to aid those affected by the rains, particularly in providing food. He acknowledged the emergency situation caused by the ongoing rains, which have led to the destruction of roads and the stranding of essential supplies. A Cabinet meeting has been scheduled to discuss further recommendations and prepare the country for dealing with the aftermath of the current weather conditions.

As the nation grapples with these devastating floods, it is essential for residents to heed the warnings and avoid crossing swollen rivers. The loss of lives and destruction caused by these natural disasters serve as a stark reminder of the importance of preparedness and caution during extreme weather events.

[Story by Stephen Nzioka, Philip Muasya, Phares Mutembei, James Omoro, and Muriithi Mugo].