State Orders Emergency Help Centres as Heavy Rains Put Counties on High Alert

The government has instructed all sub-counties in Kenya to quickly establish public help desks and emergency response centres as heavy rains continue to fall in many parts of the country. The directive is part of efforts to improve communication and speed up assistance to communities facing flooding and other weather-related dangers.

Public Service Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku said the move is meant to strengthen disaster response at the local level. He explained that the State Department for Special Programmes is already coordinating national preparedness as authorities brace for continued rainfall in the coming days.

Under the new directive, every sub-county will be required to set up information desks where residents can report emergencies or seek guidance. Local administrators have also been told to establish rapid response points in each division to ensure quick action when floods or other incidents occur.

The government is particularly concerned about the risk of rising rivers, flooded roads and displaced families. Several regions have already reported heavy rainfall, raising fears that more communities could soon be affected.

Ruku urged Kenyans to remain cautious during the rainy period. He warned that poor visibility and waterlogged roads could increase the chances of accidents.

“The Ministry urges all Kenyans to remain vigilant and exercise caution, especially on the roads, for their safety and that of other road users,” he said.

He also cautioned residents against attempting to cross flooded rivers or streams, noting that water levels can rise suddenly and become dangerous.

“Members of the public are also advised to avoid crossing rivers that may have swollen or broken their banks,” Ruku added.

Deputy County Commissioners have been directed to closely track the situation in their areas. They must also provide regular updates on households affected by floods or those requiring emergency support.

Weather experts say many counties across the country could experience heavy rainfall. Regions in western Kenya, the Rift Valley, the coast and parts of northern Kenya have all been flagged as areas likely to receive significant downpours.

Meanwhile, the government is planning an emergency coordination meeting involving several disaster response agencies. Officials say the aim is to strengthen preparedness and ensure faster response as the country continues to experience intense rainfall.