Panic as major River bursts its banks, emergency teams deployed

dennis kibet

May 18, 2018 11:10 AM

Red Cross teams have been dispatched to help in rescue efforts

Panic gripped locals in Nyakach, Kisumu after River Sondu burst its banks following heavy rains that have pounded the area.

Red Cross teams have been dispatched to the area and are currently helping with rescue efforts after families were left marooned due to the ongoing floods.

“Water is overflowing to nearby villages. KCRS Kisumu is assisting in evacuating affected residents,” an alert from humanitarian agency said.

No casualties

According to Nyakach Deputy County Commissioner Cornellius Sangura, no casualties have been reported yet.

He confirmed the worst hit areas were Thurdibuoro, Nyakwere, Nyadina, Sangoro, Nyadina and Obwage.

The Sondu Miriu River, one of the six major rivers in the Lake Victoria basin, drains a total area of 3470 square kilometres in the Western part of Kenya.

The river originates from the western slopes of the Mau Escarpment and flows through a narrow gorge, penetrating the Nyakach Escarpment.

dennis kibet