The body of a middle-aged man who was swept away by raging waters while attempting to cross a swollen stream in Muthunge area, Thange Ward in Makueni County, has been recovered.
The deceased was reportedly carried off by strong currents on Friday morning as heavy rains continued to pound parts of the Lower Eastern region. His body was later found lying on the bank of the same stream at Mulangu area within Thange Ward, bringing a tragic end to the search.
Confirming the incident to Channel 15 correspondent, Maikuu Location Chief Nicholas Mwonga cautioned residents against attempting to cross flooded rivers and streams, especially at night.
He warned that the ongoing rains have significantly increased water levels, making crossings extremely dangerous.
The Chief further referenced an advisory issued by the Kenya Meteorological Department, which has warned of heavy downpours expected over the next four days across the three Lower Eastern counties — Machakos County and Kitui County.
At the beginning of the week, another adult male was swept away under similar circumstances by a river in Yatta Sub-County, Machakos County, highlighting the growing dangers posed by the ongoing heavy rains.
Authorities have urged residents to exercise extreme caution and avoid flooded crossings as the rainy season intensifies.
