Wildfires Erupt in Kenya’s Aberdare and Mt. Kenya Forests, Threatening Water Supply
Wildfires have ignited in the Aberdare and Mt. Kenya forests in Kenya, threatening key water catchment areas. Teams from the Kenya Wildlife Service and Kenya Forest Service are battling the blazes, driven by dry conditions. Authorities have raised alarms regarding the increased wildfire risk and urge the public to report any fire sightings. Investigations into the fires are being conducted.
Authorities in Kenya have reported wildfires in the Aberdare and Mt. Kenya forests, which are crucial water catchment areas. The Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) and Kenya Forest Service (KFS) have mobilized teams to combat the blazes as dry conditions and strong winds exacerbate the situation. “Our teams are working around the clock to contain the fires, which have been intensified by the ongoing dry spell,” stated Lucy Mwati, a senior director with KWS overseeing mountain conservation.
The most active wildfire is located in the Embaringo section of the Aberdare Forest, roughly 160 kilometers north of Nairobi, with response teams racing to manage flare-ups and prevent further spread. Additional fire activity has been noted in the Mt. Kenya Forest, where assessments are ongoing to evaluate damage and resource deployment. Open fire risks have surged due to the prolonged dry conditions, prompting authorities to encourage vigilance and immediate reporting of fire incidents. An investigation into the origin of the fires is currently underway.
In summary, urgent firefighting efforts are being undertaken in response to wildfires in the Aberdare and Mt. Kenya forests, both vital for Kenya’s water supply. The increasing risk of fires due to prolonged dry weather highlights the importance of public awareness and prompt reporting. The ongoing evaluations and investigations aim to both mitigate damage and understand the causes behind these concerning fire outbreaks.
Original Source: www.aa.com.tr
