Our current forecasts highlight the persistent threat of heavy rainfall, underscoring the need for enhanced regional cooperation in early warning systems. Working together is our strongest asset in navigating challenges we face and building a resilient future for generations to come.”
Dr Workneh Gebeyehu- IGAD Executive Secretary
The intensity of rains increases across Africa prompting concern over the level of preparedness.
The Intergovernmental Authority for Development IGAD links the floods to gaps in preparedness and timely action.
Kenya,Ethiopia,Somalia, Tanzania and Burundi are among the countries in the region adversely affected by the heavy rains that have caused flooding.
IGAD reports the deaths of at least 193 people including children across the Horn of Africa, displacement of over 700,000 people citing statistics from the relief web.
Somalia Humanitarian Fund and Ocha Somalia put up camp for those displaced in Deynille following flash floods.
IGAD’s executive Secretary Dr Gebeyehu says the body is ready to work with member states to explore mitigation and adaptation strategies. He expressed sympathies to victims of the floods across the region.
More families in Kenya have been left homeless and incidents of drowning reported daily. Kenyans on X expressed fear over the continued rains.
Kenya doesn’t collect rainwater to grow food during the dry season. We lack solid evacuation plans for flood victims. We build roads/homes that cannot withstand floods. To us heavy rains are an accident. Not an annual occurrence
James Kahongeh on X
Kenya Government distributes relief food to displaced families.
IGAD’s Climate Prediction and Applications Centre (ICPAC) indicates increased rainfall up to the 4th May. Central and Western Kenya,Northern Uganda,Southern Ethiopia, and Central Somalia will experience heavy rains.
The forecast for May 2024 point to increased rainfall in the Eastern part of the greater Horn of Africa region. IGAD is issuing a flood alert in hotspot areas such as the Jub-Shebelle basins and urban centres.
IGAD is offering to partner with member states and advises governments to monitor weather forecasts and enhance level of preparedness to mitigate potential risks associated with floods and potential landslides.
Kenya meteorological department has persistently issued alerts on heavy rains and in its latest forecast, it shows increased rainfall across parts of the country. Affected areas are likely in highlands East/West Rift Valley,Lake Victoria basin, Rift Valley,Southeast lowlands and Northwestern Kenya.
DISASTER PREPAREDNESS
The inundation, gripping several nations across the continent has prompted urgent calls for proactive measures to mitigate the impact and safeguard vulnerable communities.
IGAD is expected to launch a project on Strengthening Early Warning Systems in the IGAD region. The launch will be held in Nairobi.
Waterborne diseases are expected in the prevailing situation and the ministry of health is advising households to prioritise safety and hygiene. The department is asking Kenyans to be vigilant for the outbreaks of respiratory illness and other related diseases.
