El Nino: Govt Warns Kenyans Against Travelling Upcountry For Christmas

• Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura said the ongoing heavy rains had destroyed most of the roads
• Mwaura asked motorists to avoid driving at night, and those who must travel should carry necessary safety kits
• Mwaura advised parents to minimise travelling with children since the roads were still dangerous

Amos Khaemba, a journalist at TUKO.co.ke, brings more than three years of experience covering politics and current affairs in Kenya

Nairobi - The government has asked Kenyans travelling during Christmas and New Year festivities to be alert due to the ongoing El Nino rains.

Addressing the press on Sunday, December 10, Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura said many roads have been washed away because of floods, which might endanger road users.

Govt cautions against Christmas travels

Mwaura cautioned motorists against driving ahead of heavy downpours, saying visibility is poor on most roads.

"While planning for your travel upcountry, we may not have the latest update on the condition of the road we are trying to use. It is thus advisable not to drive when it is still raining and especially when the visibility is less than 100 metres, which might compromise your safety.

Unless it is extremely necessary, it is advisable to keep off these roads altogether until such a time when they are fully restored,," Mwaura stated.

Mwaura said motorists should avoid travelling at night, and those who must travel for the Christmas season have been advised to carry necessary safety kits for emergencies and warm food

"Night travel should be minimised as much as possible, and ensure that your vehicle is mechanically prepared for the journey ahead. Have with you the necessary survival kits, warm clothes, drinking water, and warm food," he added.

Why Gachagua blamed Kenyans over El Nino deaths

Meanwhile, Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua blamed Kenyans for the deaths being witnessed due to El Nino rains.

Speaking in Kwale on Tuesday, November 267, Gachague said most of the Kenyans who lost their lives due to floods are the ones who went to where the floods are.

"Out of the 87 deaths that have occurred due to El Nino, 37 of them are by drowning not by floods getting into your house but by you going where the floods are. Kenyans are crossing rivers when they can see the waters are rough," Gachagua said.

According to Gachaagua, Kenyans have developed the habit of crossing swollen rivers on the pretext that they are in a hurry.

"Kenyans, with their daring nature are always in a hurry to go somewhere and unfortunately never get there. They later call on the government to intervene," he added.