Due to floods, KURA closed a portion of UN Avenue in Runda

The Kenya Urban Roads Authority (Kura) has announced the closure of a segment of United Nations Avenue in Runda due to flooding caused by heavy rains.

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In a statement issued on Monday, Kura cited rising water levels on the road as the reason for the closure, which was exacerbated by heavy downpours experienced on Sunday night.

“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 roundabout and Magnolia close. (The Lord Erroll Restaurant),” Kura stated.

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Motorists were advised to seek alternative routes to their destinations, and Kura assured that they would continue to monitor the situation closely.

“We are closely monitoring the situation and will update on the progress. We urge Motorists to use alternative routes and exercise caution,” the statement continued.

The persistent heavy rainfall in Nairobi and across the country has resulted in significant property damage and loss of lives, prompting the closure of roads and other safety measures by the government.

Additionally, residents have been advised to relocate to higher ground due to flooding in residential areas.

According to government spokesperson Isaac Mwaura, as of Sunday, the death toll from the flooding stood at 228, with 164 people injured and 72 reported missing.

Approximately 212,630 individuals from 42,526 households have been displaced, affecting a total of 223,198 people nationwide.

Mwaura highlighted Homa Bay, Kajiado, Nakuru, Mandera, and Nairobi counties as the worst affected by the heavy rains and subsequent flooding.

He affirmed that the government is implementing a 24-hour evacuation notice issued on May 2 and providing logistical support, including alternative accommodation and essential supplies, to those affected by the floods.