Cyclone Hidaya likely to hit Coast region, Gov’t warns

The government is now warning that Cyclone Hidaya may soon hit the Coastal region amid the heavy rains presently being witnessed across the country.

The warning was issued after a Cabinet meeting held on Thursday to deliberate on extra measures to mitigate the ongoing devastating effects of flooding, mudslides and landslides.

The Cabinet was briefed on the weather forecast for the next three months, which showed that average to above average rains will continue in all parts of the country.

“The Coastal region is likely to experience Cyclone Hidaya, which will result in heavy rainfall, large waves and strong winds that could affect marine activities in the Indian Ocean,” read a Cabinet despatch.

The Cabinet stated that more citizens who have been affected by floods, mudslides and landslides are increasingly receiving help with food and non-food items from the government working with other partners.

Noting that flooding, mudslides, landslides and other extreme weather conditions are a result of climate change, the Cabinet resolved that the government, from now on, will rally the country in implementing measures, programmes and policies that will mitigate the effects of climate change.

On the adverse effects of weather conditions on schools, Cabinet was informed that infrastructure, including classrooms, dormitories, halls, toilets, latrines fences and perimeter walls, has been destroyed.

Some schools have been flooded, while others are being occupied by people who have been displaced by mudslides, landslides and floods.

To repair and rehabilitate destroyed school infrastructure, the Cabinet directed that the Ministry of Education works with the National Government Constituency Development so that funding is made available for repair and rehabilitation of destroyed infrastructure.

The Cabinet endorsed the Ministry of Education’s decision to postpone the reopening of schools by one week. Schools will now reopen on May 6, 2024.

The Cabinet also approved the expansion of the Manda Bay Airfield runway in Lamu.

This project will enhance Kenya Defence Forces’ capability to defend the country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.