Residents of Marangar Village in Tapach Ward, West Pokot County, spent the night out in the cold after thunderstorm and heavy winds struck the area on Monday, March 24, killing two sheep and destroying 15 houses.

The strong winds and thunderstorms also destroyed buildings of Nyarpat RCEA Church and Embossion Primary School buildings.

Affected families say the violent winds blew off the roofs of over 15 houses, forcing families to salvage what they could as the rains poured.

Confirming the incident, West Pokot County Government disaster management chief officer David Chepelion said the the county government sent a team in the village on a rescue mission.

“Household property worth an unknown amount was destroyed, animals and several crop farms were swept away by raging floods, leaving farmers empty-handed,” said Chepelion.

Residents are now appealing to humanitarian organizations and the national government to step in and offer assistance to the affected families, many of whom are now struggling to find shelter.