The March-April-May season in Kenya this year has been marked by unusually heavy rains resulting in devastating floods across the country. The floods have caused significant damage to infrastructure, houses, crops and have resulted in loss of lives and displacement of hundreds of people. The purpose of this report is to provide an overview of the impact of the floods in Kenya and the measures being taken to mitigate the situation.

Flood Impact: From 22 to 27 March 2023, several counties in Kenya were affected by intense flooding resulting in loss of lives and property damage. According to the data collected as of 27th March, at least 12 people have lost their lives, and 36,432 people have been affected across 19 counties. The Western part of the country, mainly North Western and South Western, has been the most affected by the floods. Counties like Kisumu, Nyamira, Kisii, Kakamega, Narok, Turkana, Isiolo, West Pokot, Elgeyo Marakwet, Marsabit, Samburu, Mandera, Wajir, Kiambu, Siaya, Bungoma and Nairobi have reported significant destruction of roads, houses, infrastructures, and crops. The floods have also resulted in landslides across the Rift Valley region, where environmental degradation has occurred due to rampant tree felling.

Forecast: The Kenya Meteorological Department has warned of further heavy rainfall up to mid/late April 2023. The forecast has raised concerns about the possibility of more flooding, landslides, and worsening of the situation in the already affected counties. The floods have also increased the risk of water-borne diseases and cholera outbreaks in counties already affected by the drought situation and food insecurity.

Response: The Kenyan government and humanitarian agencies have taken measures to mitigate the situation. Emergency response teams have been dispatched to the affected counties to provide aid, shelter, and medical support to the displaced people. The government has also mobilized resources to repair damaged infrastructure and restore essential services. Relief agencies have provided food, water, and sanitation supplies to the affected communities.

Conclusion: The heavy rains and floods that have devastated Kenya during the March-April-May season have caused significant damage to infrastructure, houses, crops, and loss of lives. The situation is likely to worsen with the forecast of further heavy rainfall. The government and humanitarian agencies are working to mitigate the situation by providing aid and restoring essential services. It is crucial to address the underlying causes of the floods, such as environmental degradation, to prevent such disasters in the future.