Monday, March 08, 2010 Parks flood after river burst its banks
At least 17 tourists had to be rescued from parks in the northern part of Kenya after torrential rains sweeping across East Africa caused the Uaso Nyiro River levels to rise significantly and burst its banks.
Safari lodges and safari camps like Samburu Serena Lodge, Samburu Lodge, Intrepids Camp and Larson Camp, as well as shops, restaurants and public areas have all been flooded. Some bridges have also been badly damages as a result of the debris sweeping across them and repairs will need to be carried out in order to make them safe for use again.
The National Management Committee issued a statement on March 5, saying that a major rescue and operation is underway and some people have already been taken to safer areas. Relief supplies had also already been positioned in Isiolo for dispatch to the affected area.
The Samburu Airstrip is still operational, but most recent reports indicate that the Archers Post Bridge is submerged.