Kihoto in Naivasha….Photo/IP
By IP Reporter
NAIVASHA, Kenya (IP)
Panic gripped Kihoto Estate on Wednesday as rising floodwaters from Lake Naivasha swallowed homes, forcing hundreds of families to flee for safety.
Streets once filled with small shops and boda bodas have turned into rivers, leaving residents stranded on rooftops and rescue teams stretched to their limits.
Authorities have urged anyone still in the low-lying estate to evacuate immediately as water levels continue to climb.
Emergency teams warn that the situation is worsening “by the hour.”
“We barely escaped with our children and a few clothes,” said Mary Wanjiru, a mother of three who has lived in Kihoto for eight years. “The water came in so fast — we had no time to save anything. My house is now completely submerged.”
Rescue operations by the Kenya Red Cross and the National Disaster Management Unit were underway late into the night, with inflatable boats navigating through flooded neighborhoods.
Officials say the priority is to evacuate those still trapped and move them to safer ground near Naivasha town.
“This is one of the worst floods we’ve seen in years,” said David Kiptoo, a Red Cross response officer coordinating evacuations.
“We’re working around the clock to reach people, but access roads are cut off and communication is difficult. Some residents are still refusing to leave, thinking the water will recede — that’s dangerous.”
Experts warn that Kihoto’s location on the lake’s shoreline makes it particularly vulnerable to rising water levels, a problem worsened by poor drainage and unregulated construction.
County officials fear the disaster could spread to nearby settlements if rainfall persists.
“The government has set up temporary shelters and food distribution points,” said Naivasha Subcounty Disaster Officer Jane Mutua, “but we are overwhelmed. Our resources are stretched thin, and we need reinforcement from the national government. Evacuations must happen now, not later.”
Flood alerts have also been issued in other high-risk zones across Kenya, including Budalangi, Marakwet,Nyando and Tana River counties, where heavy rains are expected in the coming days.
As night fell over Naivasha, the wailing of displaced families echoed through the darkened streets.
Many clung to their possessions and faith — uncertain when, or if, they will return home.
Floods have already claimed more than 40 lives in Marakwet county.
Authorities continue to urge all residents in flood-prone areas: move to higher ground immediately. Do not wait until it’s too late.
