The Kitui County Commissioner (CC), John Ondego has issued an early warning of possible flooding and displacement of people during the current heavy rains.
Speaking on Wednesday in Kitui, Ondego said the weather forecast during the last one week showed that the county received 197mm of rainfall.
“Kitui County is the third county in the country experiencing torrential rainfall after Marsabit and Murang’a counties. This portends possible flooding and displacement of people in the lowlands of the county,” warned the County Commissioner.
Ondego called on the public to be careful to avoid catastrophes that can be prevented. “I appeal to the public not to cross swollen rivers. There is no need to endanger lives. Wait until the water subsides before crossing rivers and streams,” he urged.
However, Ondego said the county has not recorded any case of fatality as a result of floods adding contingency plans to mitigate the expected floods have been mooted.
Towards this end, he said Red Cross will provide nonfood items such as blankets, nets, sufurias, water containers and tents while the county government has been tasked to mobilize for food, water, medical supplies and evacuation vehicles.
“We have set up a central command centre to respond to disasters. It will be headed by the County Police Commander. A 24 hour desk has also been unveiled at Kitui Red Cross office,” said Ondego.
He called on members of the County Disaster Team to remain on high alert as the peak rain season will be in November and the homestretch in December.
Commenting on the upcoming national examinations for primary and secondary schools candidates, Ondego said that elaborate plans are in place to airlift the examination papers to flooded areas in the region.
The County Commissioner called on the public to report any cases of flooding to the police or chiefs for help.
“We are in the process of acquiring a toll free help line for the county to report any cases of disasters for swift action,” said Ondego.
By Yobesh Onwong’a