Wildfires have erupted in the Aberdare and Mt. Kenya forests in Kenya, leading to urgent firefighting efforts by the KWS and KFS. Dry weather conditions and strong winds are exacerbating the situation. Authorities are working to contain the fires to safeguard critical water catchment areas and are urging the public to report fire signs immediately. Investigations into the fires’ causes are ongoing.
In central Kenya, wildfires have ignited in the Aberdare and Mt. Kenya forests, crucial water catchment areas, prompting swift firefighting actions by authorities. The Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) and Kenya Forest Service (KFS) are actively combating the flames, exacerbated by dry weather and strong winds. Lucy Mwati from KWS stated that their main focus is to contain the fires and protect the vital ecosystems that supply water nationwide.
One of the significant fires is located in the Embaringo section of Aberdare Forest, about 160 kilometers north of Nairobi. Additional hotspots have been identified within the forest, with teams working diligently to manage and extinguish any flare-ups to prevent further damage to sensitive sections. Meanwhile, similar fire incidents occurred in Mt. Kenya Forest, where damage assessments and resource deployments are ongoing.
Authorities warn that extended dry spells have amplified wildfire risks in forested areas and encourage the public to stay vigilant. Immediate reporting of fire signals is crucial to enable prompt response measures. Investigations into the origins of these wildfires are currently in progress.
The wildfires in Aberdare and Mt. Kenya forests present a significant threat to key water supply areas in Kenya, necessitating urgent action from conservation services. With ongoing dry conditions increasing the risk of fires, both KWS and KFS are committed to containing the blazes to protect vital ecosystems. Awareness and vigilance among the public are critical to mitigating the risks of future outbreaks.
Original Source: www.aa.com.tr
