The government has directed all sub-counties across the country to establish emergency response and assistance centres to mitigate the impact of ongoing heavy rains and floods.
The move comes as the Kenya Meteorological Department warns of continued downpours in many parts of the country, with several counties facing higher-than-usual rainfall.
In a statement, Public Service CS Geoffrey Ruku said the Ministry is coordinating national disaster preparedness, response, and recovery efforts.
The ministry, he said, is working in collaboration with county governments and other national agencies to ensure timely and effective assistance to affected communities.
“All sub-counties are hereby directed to set up a public information desk, emergency response and assistance centre, with rapid response stations in every division,” the Cabinet Secretary said, urging Deputy County Commissioners to remain vigilant and report promptly on households requiring support due to flooding.
According to the statement, the Meteorological Department has flagged several counties as particularly vulnerable to heavy rainfall.
They include Nandi, Kakamega, Vihiga, Bungoma, Siaya, Busia, Baringo, Nakuru, Trans-Nzoia, Uasin Gishu, Elgeyo-Marakwet, West Pokot, Kisii, Nyamira, Kericho, Bomet, Kisumu, Homa Bay, Migori, and Narok.
Southeastern counties such as Machakos, Kitui, Makueni, Kajiado, and Taita-Taveta, along with coastal counties of Mombasa, Kilifi, Lamu, Kwale, and Tana River, are also expected to experience heavy showers.
Northern and northwestern counties, including Marsabit, Mandera, Wajir, Garissa, Isiolo, Turkana, and Samburu, are similarly at risk.
Nairobi City County continues to experience severe flooding, with many roads submerged, impeding movement and leaving households without adequate shelter.
The Cabinet Secretary said the government is coordinating closely with the Nairobi County Government, National Police Service, National Youth Service, National Disaster Management Unit, Kenya Red Cross Society, and St. John’s Ambulance to provide rapid response and rescue services.
The Cabinet Secretary also urged Kenyans to exercise caution, avoid crossing swollen rivers, and be careful on roads to protect themselves and other road users.
Residents were advised to follow official updates, report any blocked drainage or fallen trees, and cooperate with emergency teams operating in their areas.
To accelerate relief operations, Ruku said the government will hold an emergency meeting with key national agencies and county representatives to deliberate on appropriate response measures.
The statement follows a separate advisory from Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja, who urged residents to exercise caution amid ongoing heavy rains in the capital.
Residents were warned against crossing swollen rivers or flooded roads, noting that even shallow moving water can pose serious risks to both pedestrians and motorists.
The county further advised the public to stay away from downed power lines, avoid standing under trees during storms, and report blocked drainage systems or infrastructure damage through the county’s emergency hotlines.
In case of flooding, fallen trees or other life-threatening emergencies, Nairobi residents have been urged to contact the county’s 24-hour dispatch centre through the emergency numbers 020 2222181, 020 2223182, 020 2222183 or 020 2344599.
