The Kenya Urban Roads Authority (KURA) issued a statement expressing regret over the closure of UN Avenue in Runda, attributed to rising water levels following heavy rainfall overnight.
The affected section, spanning from the off Ruaka Road roundabout to Magnolia Close, has been shut down until further notice.
KURA emphasized their commitment to closely monitoring the situation and providing updates accordingly.
Motorists are urged to seek alternative routes and exercise caution in light of the road closure.
“The Kenya Urban Roads Authority regrets to inform the public that UN-Avenue, Runda has been closed due to the rising water levels on the road following the heavy downpour experienced last night.
“The sections affected are between off Ruaka Road round about and Magnolia close. We are closely monitoring the situation and will update on the progress. We urge Motorists to use alternative routes and exercise caution,” KURA said.
Flood situation
The Kenya Meteorological Department has delivered a sobering forecast, predicting additional rainfall across the country.
This projection comes as unwelcome news for motorists already grappling with road closures triggered by flooding.
The weatherman has forecast moderate to heavy rainfall and thunderstorms in 37 counties including Kwale, Mombasa, Kilifi, Lamu, Kakamega, Vihiga, Busia, Bungoma and Trans Nzoia, Kisumu, Kisii, Nyamira, Migori, Siaya, Homabay, Nyeri, Muranga, Kirinyaga, Kiambu, Nyandarua, Machakos, Kitui, Makueni, Embu, Tharaka Nithi, Meru, Nandi, Bomet, Narok, Kajiado, Uasin Gishu, Nakuru, Laikipia, Elgeyo Marakwet, West Pokot, Baringo and Nairobi.
As a result of the rains, flooding is expected in low-lying areas, riparian areas and urban areas while landslides/mudslides may occur in areas with steep slopes, escarpments and ravines.
“The Tropical Cyclone Hidaya storm is over and forecasted to have weakened however, heavy rainfall is still expected offshore along the Coast region with strong winds and large waves already experienced in Kwale,” Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura said while quoting the Met Department.
Roads reopen
Meanwhile, Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) on Sunday, May 5, 2024, announced the reopening of major highways that had been closed due to flooding.
KeNHA said the Nakuru – Eldoret Highway at Timboroa had been reopened for traffic.
The Roads Authority also cautioned motorists to exercise caution as they approached Ahero town in Kisumu County following the overtopping of River Nyando Bridge.
