One dead, three missing as heavy rains hit Isiolo

One person died while three others are missing in Safi estate in Isiolo following floods caused by heavy rains on Friday night.

Kenya Red Cross regional Coordinator Mr Gitonga Mugambi said 130 families have been affected after their houses were submerged.

The worst hit areas include Soko ya Mbuzi, Red Cross area, Soko Mjinga, Bula Pesa, Tumtum, Kula Mawe, Tulu-Roba and Bula Mpya.

Isiolo North deputy county commissioner Mr Kipchumba Rutto said rescue teams have been deployed in the affected areas to evacuate residents and recover the bodies.

"The rescue team has already recovered one body. A mother and her child believed to have been swept away by the floods are yet to be found. We are looking for three people whom we hope are alive. They were swept away by raging floods from Isiolo River," Mr Rutto said.

The Red Cross official said only one person was confirmed to have drowned in the floods.

"We have advised government officials that the affected families be moved to safer grounds. This should be done urgently to avoid further casualties in case the rains continue," Mr Gitonga said.

The DCC urged residents to remain vigilant during the ongoing rains to avoid accidents and fatalities.

Several Banks and hotels in Isiolo town have also been submerged.

The body of the deceased was taken to Isiolo hospital mortuary.