The Kenya Meteorological Department has issued a warning that Kisumu County, along with several other regions, will experience heavy rainfall from March 28 to April 1. The department cautions that the rains, often accompanied by thunderstorms, will intensify in the afternoon and continue into the night, increasing the risk of flooding and displacement.
Displacement Crisis Worsens
Flooding in Kisumu has already displaced numerous families, with affected individuals seeking refuge in temporary shelters. The county, known for its low-lying areas and proximity to Lake Victoria, has historically suffered from severe flooding during heavy rains. Many residents have lost their homes and livelihoods, while essential infrastructure, including roads and health facilities, has been significantly affected.
The ongoing heavy rainfall is expected to exacerbate the situation, with authorities urging residents in flood-prone areas to move to safer grounds. Emergency response teams have been deployed to assist those in need, but resources remain strained due to the scale of the crisis.
Cholera Outbreak Adds to the Challenge
As Kisumu grapples with displacement caused by floods, the county is also battling a cholera outbreak. Health officials have confirmed three fatalities and several hospitalizations due to the disease, which is primarily spread through contaminated water and poor sanitation.
The outbreak was first reported on March 19, 2025, at Ahero County Hospital in Nyando Sub-County. Since then, at least 15 cases of acute watery diarrhea have been recorded, with six confirmed as cholera. The situation has raised concerns about the safety of drinking water, particularly in flood-affected areas where sanitation facilities have been compromised.
In response, the county government has activated its Emergency Operations Center (EOC) to coordinate containment efforts. Rapid Response Teams have been dispatched, and health workers are undergoing specialized training to handle cholera cases effectively. Residents are advised to boil or treat drinking water, maintain proper hygiene, and seek immediate medical attention if they experience symptoms such as diarrhea, dehydration, or vomiting.
Government and Humanitarian Response
The county government, in collaboration with humanitarian organizations, is working to mitigate the dual crisis of flooding and disease outbreak. Efforts are underway to distribute clean drinking water, provide sanitation facilities in affected areas, and educate residents on cholera prevention measures. However, with continued rainfall expected, authorities warn that the risk of further displacement and disease spread remains high.
Call for Vigilance and Preparedness
Residents of Kisumu are urged to stay informed through local news updates and follow official advisories. Those in low-lying areas should consider relocating to safer places, while the public is encouraged to observe strict hygiene measures to prevent the spread of cholera.
As climate patterns become increasingly unpredictable, the importance of robust early warning systems and proactive disaster management strategies cannot be overstated. Authorities and humanitarian agencies are working tirelessly to ensure the safety and well-being of Kisumu residents during this challenging period.