Kenya Landslide Claims 13 Lives Amidst Heavy Rainfall
A tragic event unfolded in Kenya’s Rift Valley on Saturday morning, as a landslide claimed the lives of at least 13 people. The disaster, which occurred following heavy rainfall, has prompted immediate rescue operations, according to reports.
Details of the Devastation
The landslide struck in the Elgeyo-Marakwet County, a region within the Rift Valley. Police confirmed the grim toll, noting that the disaster was a direct result of the intense rainfall that hit the area. Peter Molinge, the police commander of Elgeyo-Marakwet, reported that 19 individuals were rescued, while an unknown number of people remain missing.
The scale of the disaster required an immediate response. Kenya’s Interior Minister, Kipchumba Murkomen, announced that the government deployed both military and police helicopters to assist in the rescue efforts, highlighting the urgency of the situation. The search continues for those still unaccounted for.
Climate Change and Extreme Weather
This event is not an isolated incident. Over the past few years, Kenya has witnessed a surge in landslides and floods, resulting in hundreds of fatalities. Scientists have pointed to climate change as a significant contributing factor, stating that it is exacerbating extreme weather patterns. The heavy rainfall that triggered this recent landslide is a stark example of the more intense and unpredictable weather events that Kenya is now experiencing.
The Broader Context
The disaster serves as a somber reminder of the devastating impact of climate change and the urgent need for preparedness and mitigation strategies in vulnerable regions. As the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events increase, communities like those in Elgeyo-Marakwet face heightened risks. This tragic event underscores the critical importance of understanding and addressing the root causes of these disasters.
Source: Annahar
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