Kenya and Tanzania are facing the threat of Cyclone Hidaya, following devastating floods and heavy rains that have killed nearly 400 people and displaced tens of thousands. The cyclone is expected to make landfall in Tanzania and bring more rain to Kenya, especially in the coastal city of Mombasa. The Kenyan government has ordered mandatory evacuations near dams and water reservoirs in anticipation of the cyclone, and citizens have been warned to remain vigilant.
The floods and heavy rains in Kenya have resulted in at least 210 deaths, with many others injured, missing, or displaced. The El Nino weather pattern has exacerbated the situation, leading to increased rainfall and flooding. In Tanzania, at least 155 people have been killed in recent flooding and landslides, with fears of more weather disruptions with the arrival of Cyclone Hidaya. The Tanzania Red Cross Society has warned of heavy rain and strong winds in regions near the Indian Ocean in the wake of the cyclone.
The Kenya Meteorological Department has issued warnings of continued heavy rains and strong winds over the next few days, with Nairobi and other areas likely to be affected. The department has urged residents to be vigilant for flash floods, lightning strikes, and other weather-related dangers. Kenyan Deputy President William Ruto has deployed the military to evacuate residents in flood-prone areas and order mandatory evacuations near dams and water reservoirs.
The devastating weather has also impacted Kenya’s tourism sector, with tourists stranded in the Maasai Mara wildlife reserve due to flooding. Rescuers have managed to evacuate many individuals, but the impact of the flooding on the region has been severe. In the Rift Valley, a dam burst resulted in dozens of deaths and many others missing. The government has faced criticism for its response to the crisis, with accusations of being unprepared and slow to act despite weather warnings.
Human Rights Watch has emphasized Kenya’s obligation to prevent harm from climate change and extreme weather events and to protect its citizens during disasters. The government’s response to the flooding and Cyclone Hidaya has raised concerns about preparedness and the need for better disaster prevention measures. The ongoing crisis in Kenya and Tanzania highlights the vulnerability of the region to extreme weather events and the importance of effective disaster management strategies.
