Kenya – West Pokot Landslide Death Toll Rises to 54, Dozens Still Missing

Hours of heavy rain in western Kenya triggered massive landslides and flash floods in West Pokot County on 23 November, 2019.

Floods and landslides ripped through areas of West Pokot, Kenya, on 23 November, 2019. Photo: Kenya Red Cross

The government of West Pokot County said that, as of 24 November, 54 people have been confirmed dead and 46 people are still missing. Sixteen survivors have been admitted to Kapenguria County Referral Hospital.

County officials said the catastrophic landslides hit Tapach, Weiwei and Batei Wards of West Pokot. Houses were damaged or destroyed by the gushing rivers of sludge, boulders and uprooted trees. Authorities said that more than 10,500 people have been displaced and there is an urgent need for humanitarian assistance.

The county government said that a multi-agency team comprising Kenya Defence Forces, Kenya Police, Kenya Red Cross and County Disaster Management Unit are on the ground. A medical team is also expected from Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital. Psychosocial support desk has been set up at Kapenguria County Referral Hospital.

Roads have been cut and bridges wiped out, severely hindering rescue and relief operations.

Floods Displace Thousands in Tana River County

Heavy rain has also caused flooding and landslides in other areas of the country, including Taita Taveta, Tana River, Meru and Uasin Gishu counties.

Kenya Red Cross said that “Rains continue to pound Taita Taveta with heavy downpour experienced at the highlands of Wundanyi, Rongé and Vuria. Landslides have been reported at Mbengonyi, Mndangenyi, Msau and Mbale.”

In Tana River County, Kenya Red Cross reported that over 1,000 households have been displaced in Ziwani and other locations after the Tana River burst its banks.

According to Red Cross reports, a number of houses have been reportedly swept away after river Thanantu broke its banks in Mikinduri in Meru County. Families have been displaced in Turbo, Uasin Gishu County, after the Turbo River broke its banks.

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