A warning has been issued to households and businesses occupying vulnerable structures to take no chances as heavy rains expected later in the year could expose weaknesses in buildings and increase the danger of collapses.
The National Disaster Operations Centre (NDOC) says buildings constructed below approved standards could be particularly exposed during the October-November-December (OND) rainy season, as persistent downpours may affect both structures and the ground supporting them.
The agency has called on the public to remain alert to changes in buildings, especially during periods of intense rainfall.
“Above normal rainfall may weaken buildings that do not meet approved construction standards, increasing the risk of partial or complete collapse,” the centre said in a public safety message.
According to NDOC, water from flooding can also wash away or weaken soil around building foundations. Such damage may affect the stability of a structure and create danger not only for occupants but also for people in neighbouring areas.
Residents have been advised to take visible changes in buildings seriously instead of waiting for a structure to deteriorate further.
Among the signs that could indicate a building is unsafe are large cracks, walls that begin to lean, floors that sink and other unusual changes to the structure.
People who notice such warning signs have been told to get out of the affected building immediately and inform the relevant authorities.
NDOC has cautioned residents against going back into buildings showing signs of failure, including to collect personal belongings. The agency has also urged the public not to occupy structures that authorities have already declared unsafe.
People have further been warned against using buildings still under construction where the necessary approvals have not been obtained.
The advisory forms part of preparations for the expected October-November-December rains, with authorities already focusing on areas likely to face flooding and other effects of heavy rainfall.
In July, Homa Bay, Kisumu and Nakuru were listed among counties facing a high level of risk ahead of the rainy season. Authorities also reported rising water levels in Lake Victoria, Lake Turkana, Lake Baringo, Lake Bogoria, Lake Elementaita, Lake Naivasha and Lake Nakuru.
The rising water levels have added to concerns over possible flooding as the country heads into the rainy period.
Disaster Risk Management and Anticipatory Action expert Zachary Misiani said weather conditions could combine to produce heavier rains and an earlier start to the season.
He said the strong El Niño conditions, together with a positive Indian Ocean Dipole, could raise the amount of rainfall received in different areas.
“The two signals, the strong El Niño and the positive Indian Ocean Dipole, could enhance the rainfall, triggering an early onset of the season which could begin with torrential heavy rainfall resulting in flash floods over different parts of the country,” Misiani said.
The concerns follow previous episodes of heavy rainfall that resulted in flooding, landslides and destruction of homes and infrastructure in various parts of the country.
With the anticipated rains expected to bring additional pressure, residents have been urged to pay close attention to the condition of buildings and respond promptly where there are signs of danger.