Reports from Kenya Red Cross have revealed that about 20 people have died following heavy rains across the country for several days now.
Further the downpours are said to have displaced more than 20,000 households and left a trail of destruction.
Kenya Red Cross Society said it has documented 18 deaths so far four each in Marakwet, Kitui, Meru, Turkana and two in Wajir.
Fears are however rife that the numbers could go higher even as Kenya Meteorological Department warns in their weekly report that rainfall intensities are likely to increase in parts of the northeast, the highlands east and west of the Rift Valley, the southeast lowlands and the coast.
“The situation could worsen due to the ongoing rains and we are asking Kenyans to observe safety measures including carrying umbrellas, being on the lookout for flash floods, moving to higher grounds and not to drive, walk or swim through flooded areas or moving water,” said Red Cross Communications Manager Peter Abwao.
Kenya Red Cross is looking at the possibility of setting up camps for displaced families especially in Wajir where about 8,000 households had been displaced and Mandera where 5,000 households have been affected.
“We are currently assessing as to whether we need temporary shelters. Some have found themselves safer grounds so far, but some may need assistance until the floods subside,” said Mr Abwao.
The latest deaths of two people were reported Saturday after flash floods wreaked havoc in Turkana County following heavy rain on Friday, which the Red Cross fears might have left more casualties.
Reports also indicate that transport and business activities had been paralyzed along Kitale-Lodwar and Lokichogio road after the usually dry river beds burst their banks.
The weatherman warned that there will be heavy rains in the coastal region including Mombasa, especially in the early morning hours over several places of the county.
