Mombasa halts building works over looming heavy rains

Mombasa County has ordered a temporary stop to all construction and excavation works as part of urgent measures to deal with expected heavy rains that could trigger flooding in several areas.

The directive, announced on Thursday, March 19, was issued through a public notice by County Secretary and Head of Public Service Jeizan Faruk, who confirmed that the suspension will remain in place for three days starting immediately.

"All construction and excavation activities within the County are hereby suspended for a period of three days, effective immediately. A review will be conducted thereafter," the notice read in part.

County officials said the action is a precaution following an alert from the Kenya Meteorological Department, which warned of intense rainfall likely to affect many parts of the country.

According to Faruk, some parts of Mombasa have already been flagged as high-risk zones, with Jomvu, Kisauni and Nyali sub-counties expected to face possible flooding between March 20 and 23.

"Localised assessments further indicate increased risk of flooding in Jomvu, Kisauni and Nyali Sub-counties," the public notice continued.

To handle any emergencies that may arise, the county has activated response centres at Port Reitz and Utange hospitals. Rescue tools, including boats, have also been positioned in key areas to allow quick action if floods occur.

Authorities are also working alongside agencies such as the Kenya Red Cross, the Kenya Forest Service and the Kenya Wildlife Service to strengthen response efforts and ensure readiness.

In a further step, the county has partnered with the Kenya National Highways Authority to fast-track drainage works and clear blocked sections along the Mombasa-Malindi Road, with the aim of improving water flow and protecting road users.

The announcement comes as the Kenya Meteorological Department cautioned that heavy rainfall is expected across 46 counties, raising fears of flooding in different regions.

Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has assured Kenyans that the government is ready to respond to any emergencies while calling on residents to remain cautious during the period.