The Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) has announced the closure of the Laisamis-South Horr Road.
In a statement, the authority confirmed that the road was closed due to a washout that occurred at the section after heavy rains.
The authority additionally advised road users against using the affected section of the road for their safety. They further assured motorists that they are monitoring the situation and will provide updates once the water recedes for restoration works to start.
“KeNHA remains committed to ensure seamless connectivity to facilitate safe passage of goods and services for economic prosperity,” KeNHA said.
The ongoing rains wreaking havoc have caused the temporary closure of several roads in different parts of the country.
Earlier, the Ministry of Interior rendered several roads impassable due to water overflows and road cut-offs in different areas.
According to the Kithure Kindiki-led ministry, key highways in Nyanza, Western, Rift Valley and Eastern regions have been declared impassable. The highways such as as the Kapenguria – Lokichar – Lodwar highway, Nakuru– Eldoret road at Timboroa market, and Oletepesi – Magadi road are impassable due to flooding.
The ministry also noted that culverts and drainage systems have been blocked due to accumulated debris further exacerbating water stagnation and flooding. Strong water currents have also eroded some roads, making them unsafe for vehicle passage.
The ministry also stated that Nairobi and other urban areas are experiencing water stagnation which has led to the emergence of potholes and damaged roads. Similarly, the Urban area drainage systems are overwhelmed with several manholes becoming hazardous.
In the Coast and North Eastern region, several coastal and frontier roads are partially flooded, with the Habaswein – Abakore – Dadaab road remaining a no-go zone.
In the Central Region, the ongoing heavy rains have triggered landslides in hilly areas, posing a risk of vehicle accidents.
Significant damage to key road infrastructure complicates travel and transport, with warnings issued for the Tana River bridge in Mororo Area and the Garissa – Madogo road.
The ministry advised residents across all regions to avoid unnecessary travel for their safety, the residents have also been asked to follow advisories from the government and local authorities.
