Wildfires Erupt in Key Kenyan Forests, Threatening Water Catchment Areas

Kenyan authorities are battling wildfires in the Aberdare and Mt. Kenya forests, critical water catchment areas. The Kenya Wildlife Service and Kenya Forest Service are coordinating firefighting efforts amid dry conditions. Fire outbreaks have been reported, prompting immediate containment measures and assessments of affected areas. Prolonged dryness increases the wildfire risk, and investigations are ongoing to determine the causes.

Wildfires have erupted in the Aberdare and Mt. Kenya forests, which are crucial water catchment areas in Kenya. The Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) and the Kenya Forest Service (KFS) have been mobilized to combat the blazes, which are being exacerbated by dry conditions and strong winds. Emergency response teams are prioritizing the containment of these fires to protect the fragile ecosystems critical for the country’s water supply.

Authorities have reported that one of the primary fires is located in the Embaringo section of the Aberdare Forest, situated approximately 160 kilometers north of Nairobi. Further assessments are ongoing in the Aberdares to manage flare-ups and prevent them from spreading to vulnerable regions. Additionally, fires have been detected within the Mt. Kenya Forest, prompting efforts to evaluate damage and allocate resources to mitigate ongoing threats.

With prolonged dry spells raising wildfire risks, officials have urged the public to stay alert and notify them of any fire occurrences. Investigations are currently underway to determine the cause of these wildfires, highlighting the urgency of the situation.

The recent wildfires in the Aberdare and Mt. Kenya forests pose a significant threat to vital water catchment areas in Kenya. Efficient firefighting efforts led by KWS and KFS are underway to contain the spread of these fires. The authorities emphasize public vigilance and have commenced investigations into the fire’s origins as they work to protect the critical ecosystems.

Original Source: www.aa.com.tr