Ahero, Kisumu County – Hundreds of residents in Ahero Town and neighboring villages have been left homeless after River Nyando burst its banks early Friday morning, November 29, following heavy overnight rains.
The floods, which struck at around 3 a.m., have displaced at least 350 households in Nyando Sub-County, with local authorities warning that the number could rise as assessments continue. The worst-hit areas include Kondhiro, Oketha, Kamadumbi, and Kochola villages in Tura Sub-location.
Families Seek Refuge
Displaced families are camping along roadsides, awaiting assistance. Kisumu County Red Cross Coordinator, George Opidi, confirmed that a rapid assessment is underway to determine the scale of damage and coordinate relief efforts.
“The Kenya Red Cross Society Action Team is on the ground, working with other stakeholders to address the immediate needs of the affected families,” Opidi said.
Transport Remains Open but Risks Persist
Nyando Deputy County Commissioner (DCC) Elijah Maranga assured the public that the Ahero Bridge, a key link along the Kisumu-Nairobi highway, is still passable for both vehicles and pedestrians. However, he cautioned that continued rainfall could threaten its usability.
“The road is currently passable, but with more rains, we anticipate an overflow on the Ahero Bridge. Residents should remain vigilant and relocate to higher grounds to avoid loss of lives and destruction of property,” Maranga warned.
Wider Impact of Long Rains
This flooding incident highlights the devastating impact of the ongoing long rains season across Kenya. Government reports indicate that over 200 people have died, more than 40,000 have been displaced, and 200,000 others affected by floods since the rains began in March.
In response, the National Government, Kisumu County officials, and humanitarian organizations like the Kenya Red Cross are monitoring the Ahero situation and mobilizing resources for immediate relief.
Call for Vigilance
Authorities are urging residents in flood-prone areas to heed early warnings, relocate to safer grounds, and prioritize their safety as heavy rains persist.
The humanitarian and infrastructural toll of the long rains underscores the urgent need for flood mitigation strategies in affected regions to prevent future disasters.
