Kenya: Flood-related deaths rise to 44

Kenya is experiencing heavy rains which have disrupted normal activities across the country, leading to the destruction of properties and loss of 44 lives so far, the Kenya Red Cross Society (KRCS) said.

According to the KRCS, the heavy rains affected the lives of around 60,000 people.

In the Mathare slums of Nairobi, the country's capital, residents - mostly low-income - were left stranded in their homes due to severe flooding on Wednesday following an overnight rainstorm .

Due to the deluge, Kenya's inland rail operations were suspended and highways were temporarily closed in some areas.

The Kenya Meteorological Department predicted that rainfall would persist in several parts of the country and heavy downpours would occur.

Kenya said on Thursday it had strengthened emergency measures to respond to flooding in various parts of the country caused by ongoing heavy rains.