At least 155 killed in Tanzania as heavy rains batter East Africa

The recent heavy rainfall events in East Africa have resulted in significant loss of life and property damage. According to reports, at least 200 people were killed across Tanzania, Kenya, and Burundi, with the majority of fatalities occurring in Tanzania where over 150 people lost their lives. In Kenya, flash floods have claimed at least 32 lives, while in Burundi, the exact number of deaths is unknown. The heavy rains have also displaced thousands of people, with the Red Cross reporting that over 11,000 individuals were forced to flee their homes in Kenya alone. In Tanzania, Prime Minister Kassim Majaliwa stated that more than 200,000 people and 51,000 households have been affected by the floods. The rainfall is attributed to El Niño, a naturally occurring climate pattern associated with increased heat worldwide. The heavy rain has caused widespread destruction, flooding homes, businesses, and leaving many people stranded on rooftops.