Kwale: The Kenya Red Cross Society has issued a warning that parts of Kwale County are at risk of flooding during the upcoming October-December rains, potentially displacing approximately 20,000 households.
According to Kenya News Agency, Kwale Red Cross Coordinator Mohammed Mwaenzi indicated that the areas most likely to be affected include Lunga Lunga, Jego, Kiwegu, Vanga, Majoreni, Kanana, Msambweni along the Ramisi River, Kinondo, Diani, Ukunda, Lemba, and Darad. Mwaenzi also warned that several key roads, such as the Likoni-Lunga Lunga, Mgombezi-Mwangulu, Ndavaya-Kinango, and Samburu-Silaloni roads, could face severe disruptions.
Recent heavy rains have already led to structural damage in some parts of Kwale County, with many residents suffering significant losses. Mwaenzi emphasized that these roads had previously experienced disruption during the 2023 El Ni±o rains and the February-April 2026 floods.
The Kenya Red Cross, in collaboration with both county and national governments, has formulated a contingency plan aimed at guiding preparedness and response efforts surrounding the rainy season. This plan seeks to identify high-risk areas, estimate the number of potentially affected people, and address existing gaps in disaster response.
The County Disaster Committee has initiated efforts to sensitize residents and various sectors about the weather outlook. A command centre has been established to coordinate disaster response, alongside capacity-building programs designed to equip emergency responders with skills to manage flood-related situations.
Designated rescue centres have been identified to temporarily accommodate displaced families, with storage centres for food and other relief supplies located nearby to ensure timely access to assistance. Mwaenzi highlighted the importance of these preparations to mitigate the impact of the anticipated flooding in Kwale County.
