
East Africa braces for yet another disaster as Cyclone Hidaya threatens coastal regions of Kenya and Tanzania, following torrential rains that have already claimed over 350 lives and displaced tens of thousands.
Kenya has been particularly hard-hit, with 188 deaths and 165,000 people displaced since March due to flooding.
The government warns citizens to remain vigilant as Cyclone Hidaya brings heavy rainfall, strong winds, and large waves to the coast.
Neighboring Tanzania, which has suffered at least 155 deaths from flooding and landslides, is also on high alert for the cyclone’s impact.
The Tanzania Red Cross Society anticipates heavy rain and strong winds in areas near the Indian Ocean.
The relentless downpours have also caused havoc in Burundi, leaving at least 29 people dead, 175 injured, and tens of thousands displaced since last September.
Kenya’s vital tourism industry has not been spared. Approximately 100 tourists were stranded in the Maasai Mara wildlife reserve after a river overflowed, flooding lodges and camps.
Rescue efforts managed to evacuate 90 people by air and ground, but the area remains inaccessible due to washed-away bridges.
Over 50 safari camps have been affected, leaving more than 500 locals temporarily unemployed.
Local communities have been forced to evacuate due to the rising water levels, with fears of waterborne diseases emerging.
The situation is further compounded by the potential for Cyclone Hidaya to worsen the existing devastation.
Kenya’s worst single incident occurred when a dam burst near Nairobi, killing dozens and leaving over 50 missing.
East Africa desperately needs international assistance to navigate this complex crisis. Immediate relief efforts are crucial to address the dire humanitarian needs, coupled with long-term solutions to prevent further tragedies.