Death toll from Kenya floods climbs to 277 as schools reopen amid recovery efforts
Students attend a class at a school in the Mathare slums in Nairobi, Kenya, on May 13, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]
The death toll from devastating floods and landslides in Kenya, triggered by heavy rains, has risen to 277, according to a government announcement.
The update came as schools across the nation cautiously resumed classes for the second term, following a two-week delay due to the adverse weather conditions.
"Some of the schools that have been adversely affected by the heavy rains and flooding will have their opening delayed as the national and county multi-agency teams ensure that repairs are done to create a safe environment for students to resume learning," said the Ministry of Interior and National Administration in a statement issued in Nairobi, the capital of Kenya.
Sunny intervals are forecast for most regions of the country over the coming week, interspersed with occasional rainfall and thunderstorms across 37 counties.
Flooding is expected in low-lying areas, riparian areas and urban areas while landslides and mudslides may occur in areas with steep slopes, escarpments and ravines, the ministry said.
Health concerns are escalating amid the crisis, with 53 cholera cases reported so far.
The Ministry of Health, in collaboration with the Kenya Red Cross, is trying to control cholera and other waterborne diseases in Tana River and Marsabit Counties.
On May 10, the World Health Organization warned of a possible surge in food-borne diseases in Kenya due to the ongoing flood crisis.
The WHO advised those affected by floods to ensure food safety through thorough cooking, proper storage and enhanced personal hygiene practices.
Related articles
- Girls Aloud fans took to social media to slam an overexcited spectator after Cheryl was nearly pulle2024-06-03
Saints enter the NFL draft with questions along the offensive line
NEW ORLEANS (AP) — The New Orleans Saints could have a hard time passing up a promising prospect at2024-06-03Danny Cipriani holidays with 90210 star AnnaLynne McCord at spiritual retreat in Egypt
Danny Cipriani is spending time with US TV star AnnaLynne McCord, hitting the red carpet together be2024-06-03Even with John Schneider still in charge a new era arrives for Seahawks entering 2024 NFL draft
RENTON, Wash. (AP) — For the first time in 14 years, general manager John Schneider will be leaning2024-06-03Nearly 1,000 people honor a young Ukrainian journalist and volunteer combat medic killed in action
KYIV, Ukraine (AP) — Nearly 1,000 people attended a ceremony Sunday honoring the memory of Ukrainian2024-06-03Buccaneers eager to use the NFL draft to narrow the gap between themselves and other top teams
TAMPA, Fla. (AP) — The Tampa Bay Buccaneers believe they’re close to being Super Bowl contenders aga2024-06-03
atest comment