The Kenya Red Cross has urged residents of flood-prone areas in Mombasa to relocate to safer locations as the county prepares for heavy rains expected in October.
Mombasa Red Cross Coordinator Aisha Al-Husseini said the organisation has started sensitising residents on measures they can take to protect themselves from the effects of flooding.
Areas identified as being at risk include Ziwa la Ng’ombe, Kongowea and Mkomani in Nyali, Miritini and Bangladesh in Jomvu, as well as Shika Adabu and Tibwani in Likoni.
Other areas include Mishomoroni, Junda, Mtopanga and Mwakirunge, as well as Airport, Magogoni and Chaani. In Mvita, Ganjoni, Majengo, Old Town and Bondeni are also considered flood-prone.
More than 30 officers have been prepared in each ward, alongside two boats, to support rescue operations in the event of flooding or other emergencies.
Meanwhile, Mombasa County Chief Disaster Management Officer Ibrahim Basafar has urged residents to take early precautions, particularly those living in flood-prone areas.
Residents have also been urged to ensure drainage channels are not blocked by waste to reduce the risk of flooding.
Authorities have pledged close coordination in providing assistance and carrying out rescue operations should the rains cause flooding, while residents have been encouraged to monitor weather updates and take early precautions.
