51 passengers stranded deep in Tana River after their bus was swept by heavy rains

Kenya Red Cross has sent two boats to rescue 51 passengers stranded in the Tana River from Garissa to Nairobi, who were swept by heavy rains.

First responders were also sent to assist.

“First responders in collaboration with community members are currently engaged in a challenging rescue operation to save the lives of several people stranded aboard a bus that has been marooned by raging waters at Arer near Tulla village in Tana River County,” KRC said.

“The incident occurred following heavy downpour. We have dispatched two rescue boats to ensure a swift and effective response.”

This comes even as the Kenya National Highways Authority announced the closure of the Nairobi-Garissa (A3) Road.

The authority closed the road due to flooding at Arer Area, between Bangaley and Madogo.

KeNHA said the flooding is a result of the ongoing heavy rains which occurred Monday night.

The rainfall resulted in the rising water levels along the entire stretch.

According to the Authority, the flooding at Arer has compromised the road and diversion that was previously in use.

“This poses a high safety risk to the road users. This road, therefore, shall remain closed until the flood waters subside and the damaged section is reinstated,” KeNHA said.

The Authority said its staff are on site ready to deal with the washout immediately after the water subsides.

On Tuesday, the weatherman warned that most parts of the country will continue to record heavy downpours this week.

This is contained in the five-day forecast by the Kenya Metrological Department covering April 9 to April 13.

The weatherman says some counties especially those in Northeastern Kenya will record higher temperatures exceeding 30 degrees Celsius.

The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) issued a warning to road users concerning the potentially hazardous conditions brought about by heavy rains across the country.

In a statement released on Saturday, NTSA Director General George Njao emphasised the need for increased caution, urging the public to be extra-vigilant, courteous, and mindful of safety measures.

He highlighted the importance of looking out for vulnerable road users such as children and pedestrians.