Tharaka Nithi County is taking proactive steps to prepare for the impending El Niño rains expected to arrive between mid-October and January 2024.
In a joint meeting held by the Meteorological Department and the county government in Chuka town, officials have highlighted potential environmental changes that could pose risks to the population.
To safeguard residents, the county is urging people to take necessary precautions.
The anticipated environmental changes include tree falls, riverbank breaches in landslide-prone areas, and subsequent flooding.
In the event of such occurrences, residents are strongly advised to seek refuge in higher ground.
The Meteorological Department is committed to disseminating awareness and guidance to the public throughout this period.
During a press briefing attended by various government institutions, Governor Muthomi Njuki announced a ban on swimming in rivers countywide to prevent drowning incidents.
He emphasized the need to bolster the County’s rescue and fire teams, including establishing contact with specialized divers on standby to respond to drowning emergencies.
Governor Njuki also drew attention to reports indicating a potential outbreak of waterborne diseases like malaria and increased risks from snakes due to weather changes.
County hospitals are prepared to provide anti-venom treatments promptly to mitigate the spread of poison.
The Ministry of Health is ensuring an adequate supply of drugs in county hospitals for prompt medical attention.
Earlier this month, Governor Njuki commissioned 1000 road marshals tasked with maintaining roads, clearing drainage systems, and ensuring accessible pathways during the El Niño rains.
Community Health Volunteers will receive refresher courses to handle health cases and assist those in need of medical care.
Farmers are encouraged to plant perennial and weather-resistant crops like coffee and tea to withstand the prolonged rains.
Additionally, they are advised to use solar dryers to preserve their harvests due to expected insufficient sunshine and to store cereals properly.
To provide assistance to those affected by the heavy rains, temporary rescue camps will be established in schools and churches.
Donations of bedding, clothing, mosquito nets, and tents will be made available at these centers.
Notably, the El Niño rains will not disrupt the administration of national exams in Tharaka Nithi County.
The county government is prepared to transport exam materials using alternative means, such as government vehicles, in impassable road conditions.
Furthermore, the government has set a target of planting 13 million trees.
Residents are encouraged to take advantage of the heavy rains to help achieve this goal, in collaboration with the Ministry of Environment, Kenya Wildlife Service, and the Kenya Forest Service.
Governor Njuki emphasized that county funds will be utilized exclusively for emergency responses, with a dedicated budget allocated by the National government to address the challenges posed by the prolonged rains.
He called on relevant entities to contribute emergency funds from CDF offices and the County assembly.
In conclusion, Deputy County Commissioner of Maara Sub County, in assuring preparedness, pledged to work closely with local communities to ensure effective communication and assistance to the public during the El Niño rains.
“We are prepared for El Niño, and we will ensure that we implement our plans,” he stated confidently.
