Hospitals urged to stress-test readiness, simulate emergencies ahed of heavy "Super" EL Nino rains

360 Degrees Estate at Katani submerged in water after a heavy downpour that has led to flash floods. Residents of the Estate are lamenting the poor state of the drainage system by the developer and Machakos County Government that have left them exposed to waterborne diseases. May 1, 2026. [Kanyiri Wahito, Standard]

With heavy rains expected to strain the heath system during the October-November-December (OND) season across the East Africa region, countries have been urged to conduct emergency simulations at high-risk health facilities to identify weaknesses before disasters strike.

The Intergovernmental Authority on Development’s Climate Predictions and Applications Centre (ICPAC) said the drills are expected to test hospitals’ ability to handle sudden surges in patients, coordinate emergency referrals, maintain essential supplies and continue operating when floods disrupt transport, electricity, access to medical facilities and supply of medical services.