Met Department warns of El Niño rains, flags high flood risk in coastal and northern counties

The Kenya Meteorological Department has warned of El Niño rains that could trigger flooding in some parts of the country, citing positive signals with an 80 per cent chance of enhanced rainfall from October to December. Officials say preparations are underway with county governments and humanitarian agencies to reduce the impact on vulnerable communities, especially those living near rivers. Garissa and Tana River counties are at high risk of flooding, as the Meteorological Department has confirmed that the Seven Forks dams are filling even before the onset of the rains.