By Nyang’au Araka
Heavy rains pounding several parts of Kenya have caused rivers to burst their banks, cutting off major roads and leaving a trail of destruction.
This is even as lives were reported lost in parts of Nairobi following flash floods on Friday evening and through the night.
Authorities say the torrential rains have disrupted transport in several regions, with water levels rising rapidly in rivers and streams after days of persistent rainfall.
The Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) on Saturday issued traffic advisories warning motorists about sections of roads that had become impassable due to flooding.
In one advisory, KeNHA said the Mai Mahiu–Suswa–Narok (B7) Road had experienced flooding and deposition of silt near Suswa after heavy rains pounded the area.
The authority said the affected section near Kedong Ranch had become dangerous for motorists.
Drivers were urged to exercise caution particularly between the Naivasha Interchange and Suswa Ranch, where runoff water and silt deposits have created hazardous driving conditions.
Motorists yet to begin their journeys were advised to consider using the Ngong–Suswa Road as an alternative route while KeNHA works around the clock to restore normal traffic flow.
Elsewhere in western Kenya, the rising waters of Migori River forced the temporary closure of the Migori River Bridge to all traffic beginning Saturday.
KeNHA said the decision was taken after water levels rose dangerously due to ongoing rains.
Motorists travelling in the region have been advised to use the Kiringi Bridge along the Migori–Kehancha Road as an alternative route until the situation stabilizes.
Reports from several counties indicate that rivers across the country have swollen beyond their normal levels, spilling onto roads and nearby settlements.
Among the affected rivers is the Sondu River, where the Kipsonoi section is reported to have overflowed, disrupting movement in surrounding areas.
Similar incidents have been reported in other low-lying regions as the rains intensify.
In Nairobi, the heavy downpour has had tragic consequences.
Flash floods swept through sections of the city, leading to the loss of lives and destruction of property in informal settlements located near riverbanks.
In a statement, the Nairobi Rivers Commission expressed condolences to families who lost loved ones and to residents whose livelihoods were affected by the flooding.
The Commission noted that the recurring floods highlight the vulnerability of the city’s environment and the urgent need to restore and protect river systems.