Mai Mahiu: Distress, Anguish As Residents Search For Relatives Swept Away By Floods

• One hundred and sixty one Kenyans have lost their lives through floods as of Monday, April 30 according to government spokesperson Isaac Mwaura
• Kenya Red Cross continued to rescue residents at the scene where they said they have rescued more than 100 people
• Residents were filled with pain, anguish, and grief as they went to inquire about their relatives who were swept away by floods

Emotions ran high as residents and relatives arrived at the Kenya Red Cross tent to inquire about their kin swept away by floods.

Residents could not hold back their tears as they went in search of their loved ones at the scene on Tuesday, April 30, by officials from Kenya Red Cross who are still rescuing residents and offering emotional support to the affected families.

The rescue team set up a tracing desk at Ngeya Girls Secondary School in Mai Mahiu, Naivasha.

Additionally, Kenya Red Cross will provide psychosocial support services to the affected families, alongside a multi-agency team.

What is the cause of the Mai Mahiu mudslide?

The floodwaters came from a nearby river that burst its bank following the heavy rains being experienced in the country.

According to William Lokoi, a survivor, the incident occurred in the wee hours of Monday, April 29 morning and the residents were greeted by roaring water which caught them unaware.

"It was around 3 am we heard walls collapse, before we could act, the force by which water was coming broke the door, and before we could realize the house was already full of water. We broke the rooftop for safety before rescue came. My neighbours houses were already swept away," Lokoi recounted.,

How many people have died following the Mai Mahiu floods?

Seventy one people have been confirmed dead while 28 are still missing after confirmation from Nakuru governor Susan Kihika on Monday after visiting the scene together with Kiambu governor Kimani Wa Matang'i.

The Kenya Red Cross on Tuesday, April had rescued 110 people from the scene, as rescue missions continued in collaboration with other government agencies.

Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and the Road and Transport Cabinet Secretary visited the scene on Monday, where the two reiterated the need to be watchful during this rainy season.

What more to know about the flood situation in Kenya

• In his support of victims, former president Uhuru Kenyatta donates KSh 2 million to aid the Kenya Red Cross in rescue missions in affected areas
• Government closes Mai Mahiu- Narok Highway asks motorists to use alternative routes
• Kenya Department of Meteorology warns Kenyans of heavy rainfalls throughout the week

Proofreading by Asher Omondi, current affairs journalist and copy editor at TUKO.co.ke.