2 people killed by raging floodwaters in Athi River
Two people have been confirmed dead in the Athi River flooding, a rescue mission by the government has confirmed.
Athi-river Deputy County Commissioner Patrick Mwangi is among government officials overseeing the rescue mission being carried out by the Red Cross.
Mwangi said the rescue operations, in estates marooned by flash floods as a result of River Athi bursting its banks this morning, are being carried out by a multi-agency team.
The DCC noted that the multi-agency team is also conducting a head count of family members who have been rescued after being trapped indoors to help account for and trace others.
"The rescue mission is ongoing. We have a multi-agency team that is very committed to rescuing as many people as possible. We will give details and a comprehensive report later. For now, the key thing is saving others," Mwangi said.
Mwangi further warned members of the public against hanging around the flooded areas.
"The risk of hanging around flooded water to take photos and selfies is not worth it. Mother nature is ruthless and everyone should take necessary caution and avert being in flooded waters areas," he added.
Tens of families have so far been rescued from submerged houses and taken to safer grounds.
Residents of Athi River termed the flash floods as a catastrophe owing to the fact that the area only received minimal rain.
The river burst its bank at around 7 am following a heavy downpour in Kajiado East and Kajiado North.
Kandisi River in Ong'ata Rongai, which draws water from Ngong hills through Sholinke and Kitengela reserves, and Kasoito Rivers, which are tributaries of River Athi, were swollen occasioning high levels of water in River Athi which is relatively sunny amid the floods.
Transport to and from Nairobi, Athi River and Kitengela was paralyzed for close to four hours after the Athi River bridge got flooded.
Residents have also raised alarm over the stability of the mega bridge which connects Mombasa Road and Namanga Road.
