NAIROBI, Kenya (AP) — A massive dam collapsed in western Kenya early Monday, killing at least 45 people and leaving dozens missing after a torrent of water swept away homes and cut off a road main, said the Interior Ministry.
The old Kijabe Dam, located in the Mai Mahiu area of the Rift Valley region, which is prone to flash floods, collapsed and water flowed downstream, carrying with it mud, rocks and uprooted trees, Stephen Kirui, a police official, told The Associated Press.
Vehicles were stuck in debris on one of Kenya’s busiest highways and rescue workers treated the injured as waters submerged large areas.
The Kenya Red Cross said 109 people were hospitalized and 49 others were missing.u
William Lokai told Citizen TV that he was awakened by a loud bang and, shortly after, water flooded his house. He escaped through the roof with his brother and children.
