Traffic disrupted as heavy rains render parts of Thika road impassable

At Juja underpass, traffic snarl-up begins at Juja mall, both on the highway and service lane.

In Summary
  • Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) said the situation has caused traffic disruptions.
  • Some of the Estates in Nairobi have been massively affected so much so that some have resindets have been left homeless.
Fllod waters occupying a section of Thika Superhighway on Wednesday, April 24, 2024.
Fllod waters occupying a section of Thika Superhighway on Wednesday, April 24, 2024.
Image: SCREENGRAB

Some sections of Thika Superhighway have been rendered impassable following heavy rains pounding the City.

Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) said the situation has caused traffic disruptions.

"Following heavy downpour last night and continuing this morning, traffic disruptions have occurred in some sections of the Thika Superhighway as follows," KeNHA said.

The heavy rains pounding the City have affected both vehicular and human traffic.

Some of the Estates in Nairobi have been massively affected so much so that several residents have been left homeless.

KeNHA says at Juja underpass, traffic snarl-up begins at Juja mall, both on the highway and service lane.

Motorists are advised to use the service lane at Exit 14 and 15 until the water subsides.

Githurai Car Wash service lane, Thika bound and Kahawa Sukari Engen towards KU main highway,  Thika bound,  which were earlier affected by floods are now passable.

"Motorists are advised to be cautious in these and other sections that may experience occasional flooding," KeNHA said.

The Kenya Meteorological Department, in an alert, said the rains will continue over the next seven days in various parts of the country.

“Flooding is expected in low-lying areas, those in flood plains as well as in urban areas with poor drainage,” Director of Meteorological Services David Gikungu said.

Landslides, he added, may also occur on steep slopes where soils become saturated.

Gikungu has advised road users to be extra cautious noting visibility is likely to reduce during heavy rainfall events.

This alert extends to aviators and boat operators.

The expected heavy rainfall, Gikungu noted, is likely to be accompanied by strong winds, thunder and lightning.

“The public is advised to avoid sheltering under trees and metallic structures to minimize exposure to lightning strikes. There is a need to be cautious since the forecasted strong winds may damage roofs, trees, and towering objects such as billboards,” he added.

The large waves and strong winds are likely to affect marine activities, he stated.

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