A heavy storm that hit Kisumu on Thursday evening, October 8, damaged buildings, tore off rooftops and brought down trees and billboards, raising concerns about the city’s preparedness for the expected El Niño rains.
The storm lasted less than 30 minutes but left a trail of destruction in several parts of the city, with fallen branches, debris and damaged vehicles reported after the downpour.
Some walls also collapsed, while fallen trees and branches affected power lines.
By Friday morning, part of the Jubilee Jumbo Hardware warehouse along Obote Road had reportedly collapsed, drawing crowds to the scene. There were also claims that some goods were looted during the commotion.
The incident has raised questions about the condition of buildings and drainage systems as the country prepares for the October-December rainy season, with concerns that heavier downpours could cause further damage.
Kisumu County Commissioner Ramadhan Mwabudzo said the county administration, working with the city planning department, would inspect buildings and billboards to establish whether they could withstand severe weather.
Authorities also said efforts were underway to clear blocked drainage systems and sewage channels to reduce the risk of flooding.
Mwabudzo urged landlords and tenants to check the condition of their buildings, warning that weak or poorly maintained structures could put traders, customers and other members of the public at risk.
The storm comes as the Kenya Meteorological Department warns of continued rainfall in several parts of the country during the October-December season.
Residents have been urged to follow official weather updates and take precautions during heavy rains and thunderstorms.
The general public has also been instructed to stay away from all outdoor activities in case of thunderstorms and refrain from taking cover under trees that can either be hit by lightning or uprooted by the wind.
Drivers and pedestrians have been cautioned not to cross flooded roads or enter any water bodies, especially in regions where the water levels can become dangerously high.
According to the weather department’s prediction made earlier this week, the coming El Niño Rains were to affect various counties including Kisumu, Nairobi, Kiambu, Mombasa, Kilifi, Kwale, Wajir, Marsabit, Meru, Embu, Murang’a, Kakamega, Vihiga, Bungoma, Busia, Siaya and Homa Bay among others.
The weather forecast was also predicting thunderstorms in some parts of Western Kenya and the Rift Valley region as part of the ongoing rainy season.
The destruction in Kisumu has brought to light the need for addressing structural deficiencies and inadequate drainage systems before more rain comes.
