The government has issued a cautionary advisory to Kenyans intending to travel upcountry for the upcoming festivities.
Government Spokesman Isaac Mwaura, speaking on Sunday, highlighted the ongoing challenges posed by heavy rains, rendering some roads impassable.
In a travel advisory for the Christmas period, Mwaura emphasized that weather forecasts indicate the persistence of heavy rains across different regions, heightening the risk of flash floods and reduced visibility on the roads.
Travelers are urged to exercise caution and stay updated on weather conditions to ensure a safe journey
He thus advised that if possible, it is important for those who want to travel to suspend their travel plans during this period unless necessary.
“When it rains flash floods are still imminent so it may not be very safe to travel. Unless it is extremely necessary, it is advisable that we keep off these roads all together until such a time that are fully restored,” Mwaura said.
He noted that those planning to travel might not be having the latest update on the condition of the routes and roads they intend to use hence the need to exercise caution.
Mwaura has advised that Kenyans should avoid driving when it is raining and especially when the visibility is less than 100 metres as this may compromise their safety.
“Night travel should be minimised as much as possible and ensure that you have your vehicle mechanically prepared well for the journey ahead, have with you the necessary survival kits, warm clothes, drinking water, hot food, phone and medication if necessary,” Mwaura said.
“If possible do not travel with children at this time. Further do not drive in or through rivers or in flooded areas, moving or stagnant waters. It is important that you take your time and wait for it to subside or turn around,” he added.
Further, the government Spox has called on those travelling to ensure they are in communication with someone so that their travel updates can be known should any trouble arise along the way.
On Friday, Mwaura said that the number of Kenyans who have succumbed to the aftermath of the ongoing El Nino rains is on a steady rise.
This was after three more persons died bringing the death toll to 168.
In Friday's emergency response update, Mwaura said the three fatalities were reported in Tharaka Nithi, Nandi and Migori counties.
Mwaura said rains are expected to persist in southern parts of the country in the Lake Victoria Basin, Central Highlands, South Eastern Rift Valley the Coastal strip and Western Kenya between December 9 and 15.
