This situation report is based on information received from the Government, UN Agencies and other humanitarian partners in the field.
Highlights
- Ten die in floods as thousands remain displaced in Nyanza and North Rift provinces.
- Kenya Red Cross leads response efforts in rescue, evacuation and needs assessments in affected areas.
- Kenya Meteorological Department predicts continued rains in the country in the next few days
SITUATION OVERVIEW
1. Flash and river overflow floods have been experienced in Nyanza province in western part of Kenya since 15th April 2009. Areas hard hit include those around River Nyando and River Nyalbiego – Awasi, Ayweyo, Magana, Sanda and Nyakach. According to Kenya Red Cross report issued on 20th April, at least five people have been confirmed dead, several households displaced and homes and farms submerged in these affected areas.
2. On 19th April 2009, at least five people perished and close to 1,000 displaced following floods which occurred in Kalemorok area of Katilu division in Turkana District on 19th April 2009. Furthermore, several livestock has been swept away by the floods as a result of heavy rains experienced in the region.
3. In Nyando, it is estimated that 8 houses were totally destroyed and 46 pit latrines submerged raising fear of possible escalation in the spread of cholera outbreak, which has affected the region since January 2009. At least 55 households have been displaced in Ayweyo sub-location and are now camping at Baptist church and Luora Primary School. In addition, 80 household displaced in Awasi have moved to Oriedo church and Gerliech School in search of shelter. Approximately 8,000 ha of rice field have also been inundated by rain waters.
4. As partners rush in to respond to the flood crisis in Nyanza and Turkana districts, the Ministry of Health has reported an increase in cases of cholera in 16 districts affected. As of 17 April, 1695 cases of cholera and 54 deaths had been recorded. The Ministry of Health, supported by WHO, have met with OCHA and UNICEF to discuss ways of strengthening coordination amongst humanitarian actors. OCHA is further working with MoH officers in mapping out areas that have been affected and tracking the response given by various agencies, while also highlighting gaps.
5. The Kenya Meteorological Department has predicted continued heavy rains across the country in the next few days. As a result, there are fears of fresh outbreaks of cholera and further spread in areas already affected.
