Wildfires Erupt in Kenya’s Aberdare and Mt. Kenya Forests, Threatening Water Supply

Wildfires have broken out in Kenya’s Aberdare and Mt. Kenya forests, necessitating emergency firefighting measures by conservation authorities. As dry conditions and strong winds fuel the flames, efforts are focused on containing the fires and protecting vital water catchment areas. Authorities have urged public vigilance regarding wildfire risks.

Wildfires have erupted in the Aberdare and Mt. Kenya forests, which are critical water catchment areas in Kenya. Authorities confirmed the fires on Wednesday, prompting extensive firefighting operations by the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) and the Kenya Forest Service (KFS). The ongoing dry conditions and strong winds have exacerbated the spread of the fires, necessitating urgent intervention to protect these vital ecosystems.

Lucy Mwati, a senior director at KWS overseeing mountain conservation, stated, “Our teams are working around the clock to contain the fires, which have been intensified by the ongoing dry spell.” She emphasized the priority of preventing the flames from further spreading and preserving the fragile ecosystems crucial for Kenya’s water supply.

The most active fire is reported in the Embaringo section of the Aberdare Forest, located about 160 kilometers north of Nairobi. In response, teams are actively working to manage flare-ups throughout the affected areas. Additionally, fires have been reported in the Mt. Kenya Forest, where assessments are underway to determine the extent of the damage and allocate necessary resources to mitigate further destruction.

Given the prolonged dry conditions, authorities urged the public to remain vigilant against wildfires and promptly report any signs of fire. Investigations are ongoing to ascertain the origins of these wildfires.

In conclusion, the wildfires in the Aberdare and Mt. Kenya forests pose a significant threat to Kenya’s water catchment areas, prompting urgent firefighting efforts. With the rise in wildfire risk due to dry conditions, the proactive response from conservation authorities is critical for safeguarding essential ecosystems. The public’s vigilance and prompt reporting of fire incidents are vital in combating this ongoing challenge.

Original Source: www.aa.com.tr