At least 13 dead in mudslides after heavy rains hit western Kenya

Elgeyo Marakwet, Kenya: At least 13 people were confirmed dead and several others missing on Saturday after mudslides triggered by heavy rains swept t...

Elgeyo Marakwet, Kenya: At least 13 people were confirmed dead and several others missing on Saturday after mudslides triggered by heavy rains swept through villages in Elgeyo Marakwet County, western Kenya, authorities said.

The Ministry of Interior and National Administration said the mudslides struck overnight in Endo, Sambirir, and Embobut areas following torrential rains, destroying homes, uprooting trees, and cutting off key access roads.

"So far, 13 bodies have been retrieved, while search and rescue efforts continue under difficult conditions," the ministry said in a statement.

Nineteen survivors have been rescued, and several of the injured are receiving treatment at a local hospital, it added.

Rescue operations have been hampered by continued mudslides along access routes. The government has deployed aerial support, emergency teams, and first responders to assist with evacuation, medical aid, and surveillance.