Mai Mahiu Tragedy: Govt Explains Cause Of Massive Floods That Have Claimed 71 Lives

• The Ministry of Water and Sanitation stated on Tuesday, April 30 the cause of the Mai Mahiu floods
• The ministry attributed the incident to a blocked railway line tunnel obstructing the natural flow of water through River Tongi
• According to reports, the Mai Mahiu floods killed at least 71 people and 28 people are still missing since the tragedy struck

Heavy rains leading to floods have continued to cause loss of lives and destruction of properties in the country.

In the wee hours of Monday, April 29, a tragic event unfolded on the busy Nairobi-Naivasha Highway in the Mai-Mahiu area, where floodwaters engulfed multiple vehicles at 3 a.m.

According to reports, the incident occurred when the Kijabe River broke its banks, engulfing local villagers and travellers along the Nairobi-Naivasha Highway.

The incident has so far claimed the lives of 71 individuals, as 28 remain missing.

What happened at Mai Mahiu?

On April 30, Water Cabinet Secretary Zechariah Njeru attributed the incident to a blocked railway line tunnel obstructing the natural flow of water through River Tongi.

He explained that the channel got blocked due to debris, stones, trees, and soil brought about by the heavy downpour in the area, thereby preventing water from flowing through the River Tongi course and its small tributaries from moving downstream.

"Majority of the flooded areas are a result of blockages, obstruction of water courses and encroachment of riparian areas: acts which contravene the Water Resources Regulations 2021,"the statement read in part.

The CS explained that the river and its tributaries overflowed at high pressure, dislodging the railway line and swiftly flowing downstream, resulting in the observed destruction.

Furthermore, Njeru clarified that contrary to several reports, the affected area does not feature a dam.

He specified that the only dam nearby is Matches Dam, situated upstream and distant from the impacted location.

Kenya Meteorological Department predicts heavy rains

The storm is far from over, according to a statement issued by the Meteorological Department on Tuesday, April 30.

The department asked Kenyans to remain vigilant as heavy rainfall is anticipated to intensify throughout the week.

The weatherman forecasts that the next seven days will not only bring heavy rainfall but also strong winds, thunderstorms, and lightning.

What you need to know about floods

• Kenya flood death toll across the country hits 103 as rains heavy rains continue to pour.
• 12 people reported dead, as more than 60k have been displaced following heavy hownpour in Nairobi and Kajiado
• The Kenya Urban Roads Authority (KURA) has announced a partial closure of roads in Nairobi county.

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