Makueni Deputy Governor Lucy Mulili yesterday said the county has mapped areas such as schools and churches, that can shelter residents incase of havoc during the El Nino rains.
In an interview with the Star, Mulili said they have identified steep and low lying areas that are likely to face flooding.
"The Kenya Meteorological Department has issued a warning about heavy rains expected this year from September to January 2024, and says it might be like 1997. In response to this forecast, we as a county, have taken proactive measures to ensure disaster preparedness, given the previous devastation caused by El Nino rains,"Mulili said.
Some of the places expected to be significantly affected by flooding are Mutiswa and Muambwani in Mbitini ward, Kilungu and Mbooni subcounty and all residents residing along river banks.
Mulili emphasised on the the importance of investing in disaster preparedness as a county to mitigate impacts, save resources, and protect development progress.
"We have engaged Red Cross to stay vigilant as we also have plans underway to purchase blankets in case of any eventualities."
She said the county will purchase planting seeds for the wards that requested for them during public participation, and will receive them in the second week of this month.
Mulili cautioned drivers and all road users to ensure they respect the weather by not crossing over flooded rivers.
"Let's avoid showoff of proving expertise on the road during the rainy season because we don't want unnecessary deaths. Rain is a blessing its better to sleep in your neighbours' house than die," she said.
Kenya has a National Disaster Management Policy that was enacted in 2009 and can be adapted and tailored to meet the specific needs of each county, thereby helping to save lives.
Makueni Woman Rep Susan Kiamba who was accompanying the deputy governor urged residents to take caution and at the same time utilise the rains by planting early.
"With El Nino rains we expect a bumper harvest, let's take advantage of the same and plant early to reap good to eradicate poverty," she said.
Kiamba also called upon the farmers to introduce manure to their farms to increase productivity.
In addition, she has urged those in low lying areas to keep an eye to any possible dangers and quickly act by alerting Nyumba Kumi officials, Chief or any leader around to save the situation before it gets worse.
Wote Nziu MCA Felix Mateso advised farmers to ensure they carefully channel the water to their farms so that they can reap big from it.
Magdalene Kalembe (nominated MCA) and widow to politician Kalembe Ndile, called on Makueni residents to ensure they check on the state of their houses and toilets which are prone to sinking.
