Torrential rains in the Kenyan Frontier Counties: Impact on health and the mitigating strategies.
By Ibrahim Suley
The Norrthern Frontier Counties and Kenya at large have been receiving rains above the normal in the past few weeks. The weatherman is forecasting that the torrential rain can escalate to the El-Nino phenomenon, similar to what the country experienced between May 1997 and February 1998.
Torrential rain is well-known for a high rate of precipitation, which is often greater than what is considered regular or moderate rainfall. This heavy rain might cause a rapid accumulation of water which often occurs over a relatively short period. This concentrated burst of heavy rainfall can lead to flash floods and other immediate consequences. It may be localized, affecting specific areas rather than widespread regions.
This localized impact can make it challenging to predict and respond to the resulting menace. The rapid and intense nature of torrential rain can overwhelm drainage systems and natural watercourses, leading to flash floods. It is often associated with specific weather systems, such as intense thunderstorms, tropical storms, or cyclones.
According to scientists, the 1997–1998 El Niño events were the strongest on record; it caused major climatic impacts on a global scale. This event caused a wide variety of disasters in the East African region that led to transport disruptions and outbreaks of malaria, Rift Valley fever, and cholera. The heavy rainfall resulted in floods and landslides in various parts of the country with consequent effects on water resources, agriculture, transport, health, and socioeconomic conditions. The estimated loss incurred by the agricultural sector alone was USD 236 million.
According to Scientists, the impacts of natural disturbances can sometimes be positive rather than negative, and in some occasions, the consequences can seem to be contradictory. For example, in the Mountains of Ethiopia, excessive rain can harm crops in the highlands, but provide a source of irrigation in the drier lowlands. The association of such uncertain effects is common in areas prone to disturbances. In flood-prone areas, for example, the torrents can inflict damage on some sectors of the population but can also benefit fisheries and provide fertile soils for farming.
However, the sheer volume of water associated with the current torrential rains in the Country can pose risks to infrastructure, including roads, bridges, and buildings. Flooding and landslides are common consequences, particularly in areas with inadequate drainage or susceptible to erosion. The rain can lead to disruptions in transportation, with roads becoming impassable due to flooding or damage. This can isolate communities and hinder emergency response efforts including the critical sector like health.
Torrential rain can have ecological consequences, affecting ecosystems, water quality, and wildlife. It can lead to soil erosion, flushing of pollutants into water bodies, and alterations of the natural habitats. The impact on the human population can be severe, causing displacement, property damage, and, in extreme cases, loss of life. Floods can have significant and far-reaching effects on the public health sector which is often multifaceted, affecting both physical and mental health.
Some of the key effects of the torrential rains are;
Flooding and Waterborne Diseases: Contamination of water sources with pollutants and sewage. This contamination increases the risk of waterborne diseases such as cholera and dysentery.
Vector-Borne Diseases: The Stagnant water resulting from heavy rain provides breeding grounds for mosquitoes and other disease vectors. This can lead to an increase in diseases like malaria and dengue fever.
Injuries and Drowning: Floodwaters can be dangerous and unpredictable, leading to accidents, injuries, and even drowning. Swift and deep currents, hidden obstacles, and the collapse of structures contribute to these risks.
Respiratory Diseases: Persistent heavy rain can result in damp and moldy environments, which may exacerbate respiratory conditions like asthma and allergies.
Mental Health Impact: Extended periods of heavy rain and associated flooding can contribute to mental health issues. The stress of dealing with property damage, displacement, and uncertainty about the future can lead to anxiety and depression.
Contaminated Food Supply: Heavy rain can damage crops and contaminate food supplies. This can lead to food shortages, malnutrition, and an increased risk of foodborne illnesses.
Impact on Vulnerable Populations: Vulnerable populations, such as the elderly, children, and individuals with pre-existing health conditions, may be more susceptible to the health impacts of torrential rain due to their limited ability to cope with and adapt to extreme weather conditions.
Likewise, the effects of this natural phenomenon need focused attention and strategy to mitigate the health impacts of torrential rains in the frontier Counties which involves a combination of preventive measures, preparedness, and response strategies. This includes;
Early warning systems: This is to Implement and improve early warning systems to offer accurate information about the extraordinary rain and flooding. This enables populations to evacuate and take precautionary actions if necessary.
Community advocacy: Conduct community awareness and education programs to inform people about the risks associated with torrential rains, flooding, and waterborne diseases. Educate communities on proper hygiene practices, safe water storage, and evacuation procedures.
Infrastructure Improvement: Invest and maintain robust infrastructure, including drainage systems, levees, and dams, to manage and control the flow of water. Adequate infrastructure helps prevent or reduce the impact of flooding.
Water and Sanitation Facilities: Improve water and sanitation facilities to ensure access to clean water and proper sanitation, even during extreme weather events. This reduces the risk of waterborne diseases.
Emergency Preparedness: Develop and implement emergency preparedness plans at all levels. This includes establishing evacuation routes, providing emergency shelters, and conducting drills to ensure that people know how to respond during floods.
Healthcare Infrastructure Resilience: Strengthen healthcare infrastructure to withstand extreme weather events. This includes reinforcing hospitals and clinics, securing medical supplies, and ensuring the availability of healthcare services during and after torrential rains.
Vector Control Programs: Implement and maintain vector control programs to mitigate the spread of diseases like malaria and dengue fever. This may involve insecticide spraying, use of bed nets, and community education on mosquito breeding prevention.
Food Security Measures: Develop and implement strategies to ensure food security, including diversification of crops, improved irrigation systems, and storage facilities. This helps communities withstand disruptions to the food supply caused by heavy rainfall.
Disaster Risk Reduction Strategies: Incorporate disaster risk reduction strategies into national and County development plans. This includes building community resilience, improving land-use planning, and implementing measures to reduce vulnerability to extreme weather events.
Early Response and Relief Efforts: Develop efficient and coordinated early response and relief mechanisms to provide immediate assistance to affected populations. This includes the provision of clean water, food, medical supplies, and shelter.
Climate Change Adaptation: Recognize and address the long-term impacts of climate change.
Develop adaptation strategies that consider the changing climate patterns and their implications on public health.
Community-Based Adaptation: Encourage community participation in the development and implementation of adaptation measures. Local knowledge and engagement are crucial for the success of mitigation efforts.
The writer is a Clinician/Health systems expert and researcher (PhD Candidate) and the immediate former CEC Health Services (Medical Services, Public Health and Sanitation)-Wajir County Government.
