Staying Safe When the Waters Rise: A Guide to Navigating Heavy Floods in Kenya

We’ve all seen how quickly heavy rains can transform Kenya’s land.

Roads become rivers, familiar terrain turns treacherous, and the danger of flooding becomes a harsh reality.

While the forces of nature can leave us feeling powerless, knowledge and preparation are our greatest allies.

This post will guide you through vital steps to take before, during, and after a flood, with a focus on Kenyan resources and the emotional challenges that come with facing such events.

Understanding Your Flood Risk: Kenyan Resources

We may not want to think about our homes or communities being affected by floods, but being informed is the first step toward protection.

Here are resources to help you assess your flood risk:

• Kenya Meteorological Department: The KMD (https://www.meteo.go.ke/) provides crucial flood watches and warnings. Monitor their forecasts closely, especially during rainy seasons.
• Kenya Red Cross: The Red Cross often has detailed localized flood risk information and resources. Check their website (https://www.redcross.or.ke/) or contact your local branch.
• County Governments: Your county’s emergency management office is an essential resource. They have specific knowledge about flood-prone regions and evacuation protocols in your area.

Preparation is Key: Your Kenyan Pre-Flood Checklist

• Your Family’s Safe Haven: Discuss evacuation routes with your family or housemates in advance.

Pick a meeting place on higher ground that everyone knows.

Prepare a “go bag” with essentials like bottled water, non-perishable food, a first-aid kit, torch, and copies of important documents (IDs, medical records, etc.).

Don’t forget those beloved pets – pack their supplies too!

• Protect Your Home: If time allows, elevate belongings to higher floors, bring in outdoor furniture, or secure it as best you can.
• Insurance Matters: Contact your insurance provider to check if your policy covers flood damage. You might need supplemental coverage to protect your home and belongings.

The Warning Bell: What To Do When the Alarm Sounds

• Listen to Authorities: Heed flood warnings from the KMD, the Red Cross, and local officials. If they say to evacuate, do it immediately. Don’t risk your safety by waiting.
• Turn Off Utilities: If possible, switch off gas, water, and electricity at the main sources before leaving. This helps minimize damage and prevents hazards.

Caught in the Flood: Survival Strategies

• Higher Ground is Your Goal: If trapped, find the highest point possible – upper floors, rooftops, or sturdy trees. Seconds matter when floodwaters rise.
• Don’t Underestimate the Flow: Never try to walk through moving floodwater. The current is deceptive, and you could be swept away or injured by hidden debris.
• Leave Your Car Behind: Don’t attempt to drive through flooded areas. Vehicles are not boats, and you could be trapped in a life-threatening situation.
• If You Must Swim, Let Go: In rapidly rising waters, ditch bulky belongings. Focus on staying afloat and finding a way to safety.

Talk to neighbours and elders in your community.

• They might have historical insights into localized flooding patterns that supplement official information or call for safety rescue organisafion