One person has been reported missing and five others rescued after the boat they were using capsized in river Migori in the Matanda area, Migori county.
Through an update on X (Formerly Twitter), the Kenya Red Cross said the boat had six people on board when the tragedy happened but they have only managed to rescue five people.
They said divers from the county government and Red Cross have are working hard in the rescue operations.
“Early this morning, a boat capsized at the River Migori in Matanda. Thanks to the quick response and support from the community, five individuals were successfully rescued. Unfortunately, one person remains missing. The Kenya Red Cross and the County Government have mobilized additional divers for continued search and retrieval efforts.” The statement read in part.
Yesterday, the Kenya Red Cross team, alongside community help promoters, assisted affected families in the Nyatike sub-county of Migori to safely reach a nearby evacuation center.
“Ongoing efforts may encompass setting up an emergency medical camp, providing essential food items, and relief tents, and delivering psychosocial support to those affected.” Red Cross stated.
Separately, in Voi, Taita Taveta County the rescuers are conducting search and rescue operations for families marooned by the rising waters. Voi River burst its banks today morning, causing flooding in villages within Voi Town.
By last week Friday, official record showed the total number of deaths emanating from floods due to the current El Nino rains being experienced in the country had reached a total of 142.
Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura announced in a statement that the rainfall is expected to continue over the southern parts of the country, with a reduction in intensity and coverage over the Northern parts of the country as a decrease in rainfall is anticipated in the Northern half of the country this week even as the government continues with its flood mitigation efforts in worst-hit counties and those on high alert.
