Baringo – The Department of Disaster and Risk Management in Baringo County is alerting residents in areas prone to landslides and flooding to exercise caution as El Nino rains are expected. According to the Kenya News Agency, County Acting Director for Disaster Michael Baimet disclosed that warning signs of an impending calamity are already visible in various regions of the county.
Baimet referred to incidents occurring in the past two weeks where strong winds have led to the destruction of homes, power lines, and blocked roads due to fallen trees and electricity poles. These events have jeopardized residents’ safety and disrupted transportation.
In preparation for the expected rains, the department has been working with locals and relevant authorities to clear blocked roads and remove debris from damaged homes and schools. Baimet specifically named Sacho, Tenges, Marigat, and Illchamus Wards as the most risk-prone areas and urged residents to remain vigilant.
He stated, ‘This entire week, all through Sunday, will be a rainy week; hence, I am advising residents to be observant and report to us on time of any incidences so that we can be able to dispense it in a timely manner.’
Baimet also encouraged community involvement in minimizing the impact of such disasters, suggesting practices like avoiding the planting of trees near homes and power lines. According to Baimet, the county government has prepared adequately for any eventualities and is poised to provide both food and non-food items to affected families.
The director added that collaborations have been formed with partners including the Kenya Red Cross Society, UNICEF, and ministerial departments to support affected residents, especially in areas where water quality may be compromised due to flooding.