Death toll in Elgeyo Marakwet landslide hits 15

The death toll in the landslide at Chesongoch, Kerio Valley, Elgeyo-Marakwet lanslides has reached 15 after recovery of five more bodies.

Interior cabinet secretary Kipchumba Murkomen says 30 people are still missing as the rescue operation continues.

The landslides occurred Saturday morning, following heavy rainfall, sweeping away several homes.

Several people have been rescued in a joint operation by the military, police and Kenya Red Cross and are receiving treatment at Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital and other health facilities.

Government security agencies and humanitarian emergency organizations then quickly pooled efforts for a rescue mission. The rescue operation by the military and police choppers has seen tens of survivors moved to safety, while those injured were airlifted to Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital in Eldoret, Chesongoch Mission Hospital and other nearby facilities for treatment.

Currently, all transport activities in the area have been paralyzed due to floods and landslides, with residents being advised to avoid travelling until flood water subsides.

The weatherman has warned that heavy rainfall and thunderstorms are expected in Elgeyo-Marakwet and other counties, including West-Pokot, Homa Bay, Murang’a, Nairobi and several other parts of the Country.