900 Ahero Girls Students at Risk as River Nyando Bursts Its Banks

The Kenya Meteorological Department (KMD) warning of heavy rainfall over the past five days has materialised, with severe flooding now being reported across parts of western Kenya, particularly in Kisumu County.

In its forecast for March 20 to March 24, the weather agency had indicated that regions in the Highlands West of the Rift Valley, the Lake Victoria Basin, and the Rift Valley would experience sustained rainfall, with afternoon showers and thunderstorms expected to intensify.

Counties including Kisumu, Siaya, Homa Bay, Migori, Kisii, Nyamira, and parts of the Rift Valley were flagged as high-risk areas.

Nyando River Overflows as Rain Peaks

The situation has turned critical in Nyando, Kisumu County, where rising water levels have caused the Nyando River to overflow, displacing residents and disrupting livelihoods.

According to the Kenya Red Cross Society, the rains intensified on Sunday, March 23, worsening flooding across low-lying areas.

“Sustained rainfall continues across West Kenya, with peak expected between March 23rd-24th. Rivers are full and rising, with River Nyando already overflowing, keeping the situation critical,” the organisation said in an update.

Also Read: Kenya Met Names 6 Regions to Receive Heavy Rainfall Over the Next Five Days

The Kenya Red Cross said River Nyando is at risk of overflowing at Ahero.

All drivers using the Kisumu–Awasi Road are advised to:

• Exercise extreme caution
• Avoid flooded sections of the road
• Follow guidance from traffic officers and authorities
• Consider alternative routes where possible

Also Read: Kenya Met Names 6 Regions to Receive Heavy Rainfall Over the Next Five Days

Schools Closed, Roads Cut Off

The heavy rains have already had widespread impacts on daily life. Several schools have been closed, roads rendered impassable, and businesses disrupted as floodwaters continue to rise.

Low-lying areas face a high risk of displacement, with families forced to flee their homes to safer ground.

Rescue and Evacuation Efforts Ongoing

Emergency response teams led by the Kenya Red Cross have stepped in to assist affected communities.

“Kenya Red Cross and partners have rescued two families and evacuated over 200 people and more than 200 livestock to safer ground,” the agency reported.

Efforts are also underway to evacuate more vulnerable groups, including students.

“Evacuation of over 900 students from Ahero Girls National School is currently underway,” the Red Cross added.

More Rain Expected

With the Kenya Meteorological Department warning that rainfall will persist through March 24, authorities are urging residents in flood-prone areas to remain vigilant and move to higher ground where it is safer.

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A photo collage showing the rainfall forecast and the maximum and minimum temperature forecasts for the period between March 17 and March 23. PHOTO/Kenya Met