Garissa town is currently dealing with the aftermath of severe flooding caused by the overflow of the Tana River.
Aerial footage released by the Kenya Red Cross on Sunday vividly depicts submerged areas of the town and homes.
“This is the current state of Garissa town.
The town is now isolated after the Tana River overflowed its banks,” the organization reported.
The Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) issued a warning on November 25, revealing that the Tana River had breached its banks.
Motorists and pedestrians were advised to avoid affected road sections.
“KeNHA informs the public that the Tana River has overflowed between Madogo Total Station, Mororo, and Tana River Bridge.
The stretch between Madogo Town and Tana River is inundated,” stated the highways authority.
Residents were also cautioned against lingering near flooded areas due to the potential danger of crocodile attacks.
In response to the crisis, President William Ruto, speaking at State House on November 25, announced the activation of a National Disaster Operation Centre to coordinate responses.
He assured the public that sufficient resources, including food, had been mobilized to support vulnerable communities.
“Adequate measures have been implemented to address the emerging crisis,” he affirmed.
Furthermore, the President disclosed that the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) would facilitate air deliveries, especially in counties affected by flooding.
Acknowledging the severe impact of the floods, which resulted in at least 70 casualties and displaced 36,000 households due to continuous heavy rainfall, President Ruto emphasized the importance of preparedness for ongoing and future emergencies.
This situation follows a November 8 warning from the Kenya Red Cross regarding critical water levels in the Tana River.
The organization had cautioned residents of Garissa, Tana River, and Kilifi counties about the imminent risk of flooding, posing a significant threat to lives and livelihoods in the region.
