Nakuru County is taking proactive steps to prepare for the potential impact of the upcoming El Niño, following an alert issued by the Kenya Meteorologist Department about a high chance of heavy rainfall between October and December 2023. The county is working diligently to minimize the risks associated with this climate phenomenon.
Today, the Acting County Secretary, Dr. Samuel Mwaura, convened a productive meeting involving various County Departments and National Government Agencies, including KURA, KERRA, and KENHA. The purpose of the gathering is to formulate a comprehensive multi-agency plan designed to address the challenges posed by El Niño effectively. This plan will subsequently be presented to the Governor for implementation.
Key areas that require immediate attention have already been identified during the meeting. Notably, the KFA Roundabout and a section of the highway below the railway-crossing bridge have been pinpointed as vulnerable to flooding. To gain a deeper understanding of the situation, the team conducted site visits to areas that have previously experienced similar issues. These include the Gioto dumpsite, London, Milimani, and the ongoing Mbugua Drainage project.
The action plan extends to other areas within Nakuru County, including Naivasha, Gilgil, Kuresoi North and South, Njoro, Molo, Bahati, Nakuru East, and Nakuru West. The collaborative effort involves not only county officials but also representatives from relevant national agencies, ensuring a unified approach to tackling the challenges that may arise with El Niño.
El Niño is a climate phenomenon characterized by elevated sea surface temperatures in the central and eastern equatorial Pacific Ocean. It can disrupt weather patterns, leading to heavy rainfall, flooding, and other adverse effects in various regions. Being prepared for such events is crucial to safeguarding communities, infrastructure, agriculture, and the overall well-being of Nakuru County’s residents.
As preparations continue, Nakuru County emphasizes the importance of early warning systems, disaster response plans, infrastructure improvements, and public awareness campaigns to mitigate the potential impact of El Niño. The county’s commitment to proactive measures underscores its dedication to protecting its residents and assets from the challenges posed by this climate phenomenon.