Ahero town in Nyando Sub-County has been devastated by floods after River Nyando burst its banks early Friday morning, following heavy overnight rains.
The flooding began around 3 a.m. and displaced hundreds of families, forcing many to flee their homes. Nyando Deputy County Commissioner (DCC) Elijah Maranga confirmed that approximately 350 households have been affected, with the number expected to rise as the situation unfolds.
The most affected villages include Kondhiro, Oketha, Kamadumbi, and Kochola in Tura Sub-location.
Kisumu County Red Cross Coordinator George Opidi reported that displaced families camp by the roadside while awaiting humanitarian assistance.
“The Kenya Red Cross Society Action Team, in collaboration with other stakeholders, is conducting a rapid assessment to guide relief efforts,” Opidi said.
Despite rising water levels in River Nyando, DCC Maranga assured residents that the Ahero Bridge along the Kisumu-Nairobi highway remains open, with traffic flowing smoothly for both vehicles and pedestrians.
However, he cautioned that continued rainfall could lead to the bridge being submerged.
“The road is currently passable, but we fear an overflow on the Ahero Bridge if the rains persist. We urge residents to remain vigilant and relocate to higher ground to avoid loss of lives and property destruction,” Maranga warned.
The National Government, in partnership with Kisumu County officials and humanitarian agencies such as the Kenya Red Cross, is closely monitoring the situation to coordinate relief efforts.
This flooding is part of a larger crisis brought on by the ongoing long rain season, which began in March.
Government reports indicate that over 200 people have lost their lives, more than 40,000 have been displaced, and over 200,000 individuals have been affected countrywide.
Authorities are urging residents in flood-prone areas to heed warnings, relocate to safer grounds, and prioritize their safety as heavy rains continue to pose significant risks.
