Wajir, Kenya – April 17, 2023 – Wajir County experienced severe flooding in late March 2023 following an unusually early onset of the Long Rains, compounded by tropical cyclone Freddy and the Madden-Julian Oscillation over the Indian Ocean. Heavy rains led to surface run-off and overflow from seasonal streams originating from the Ethiopian highlands and neighboring Marsabit County, inundating Wajir North, Wajir West, Eldas, Tarbaj, and Wajir South sub-counties. The floods claimed four lives and caused widespread disruption to communities across the county.
The flash floods damaged roads, water sources, and sanitation facilities, while health services and schools were temporarily disrupted. One person drowned in Arbajahan, Wajir West, while three more lost their lives in Korondille, Ogomdi, and Bute in Wajir North. Livelihoods, particularly livestock and agricultural activities, were severely affected, leaving residents vulnerable. In response, the County Steering Group (CSG) convened on March 28 to coordinate immediate relief, drawing on multi-sectoral teams from disaster management, health, education, roads, water, livestock, and partner organizations including NDMA and the Kenya Red Cross.
Authorities emphasized the urgent need for a coordinated humanitarian response to mitigate further losses. Recommendations from the assessment included targeted rescue and evacuation operations, restoration of critical infrastructure, and provision of essential services such as food, clean water, and medical supplies. The county government, in collaboration with humanitarian partners, continues to monitor the situation, aiming to enhance preparedness and resilience against future flood events in the arid and semi-arid region.