Wildfires have erupted in two key forests in Kenya, threatening vital water catchment areas. Conservation authorities are engaged in firefighting efforts as dry weather conditions worsen the situation. Emergency measures are in place to prevent the spread of flames and protect crucial ecosystems.
Kenyan authorities have confirmed the occurrence of wildfires in the Aberdare and Mt. Kenya forests, both of which are crucial water catchment areas. The Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) and the Kenya Forest Service (KFS) are actively working to extinguish the fires amid challenging dry conditions and strong winds that are exacerbating the situation.
Lucy Mwati, a senior director with KWS, stated that teams are committed to containing the fires, particularly one that is currently intense in the Embaringo section of the Aberdare Forest, located about 160 kilometers north of Nairobi. Additional fire outbreaks have been reported in other areas of Aberdare and within Mt. Kenya Forest, with assessment teams evaluating the damage and mobilizing resources to prevent further devastation.
Authorities emphasize that the prolonged dry weather has heightened the risk of wildfires, urging the public to be vigilant and report any signs of fire. Investigations are ongoing to determine the causes of these fires, as firefighting efforts continue to protect the ecosystems that are vital to Kenya’s water supply.
The wildfires in Kenya’s Aberdare and Mt. Kenya forests pose a significant threat to essential water catchment areas. Urgent firefighting measures are being implemented by conservation authorities in response to the intensified fire conditions. The community is encouraged to remain observant and report any fire incidents promptly in order to mitigate further risks.
Original Source: www.aa.com.tr
