A deep crack that emerged in Nakuru West Sub-County has sparked considerable alarm among residents and authorities. The crack, which appeared near the Eveready area—approximately 10 meters from the Nakuru-Eldoret highway—was triggered by a heavy downpour on Tuesday evening. According to a police report from Kaptembwo Police Station, an electricity pole sank into the crack, raising serious concerns about public safety.
Dr. Edwin Dindi, a lecturer in the Department of Geology at the University of Nairobi (UoN), has offered crucial insights into the phenomenon. He explains that the crack’s formation is rooted in the region’s geological history, dating back millions of years to the creation of the Rift Valley’s eastern arm. Dr. Dindi was responding to inquiries about the crack’s origins and the potential risks it poses.
“The cracks in this area were formed during the Rift Valley’s geological activity,” Dr. Dindi explained. “They are deep faults that have existed for millions of years.” These cracks, which run north to south, have been covered over time by volcanic materials, including pyroclastics—fragments of rocks ejected during volcanic eruptions. Despite the presence of these ancient faults, they were obscured by layers of ash and dust, making them less visible on the surface.
Dr. Dindi noted that his research, conducted about ten years ago, revealed the significant depth and complexity of these faults. His study, titled “An Assessment of the Performance of Geophysical Methods as a Tool for the Detection of Zones of Potential Subsidence in the Area Southwest of Nakuru Town, Kenya,” highlighted that the Rift Valley contains deep faults. He illustrated this by comparing the valley’s structure to driving down a steep slope, where the separation between the valley floor and higher sides is marked by deep faults.
In the Eveready area, these faults can extend up to six kilometers deep, buried beneath layers of pyroclastic materials. “The surface may appear stable due to the thick layer of ash and dust,” Dr. Dindi noted. “However, this layer hides the fractured rock beneath it.” During dry periods, these fractures remain hidden, but heavy rains can cause erosion of the covering material, leading to the formation of hollow spaces underneath. When these voids become too large, the surface above can no longer support the weight, resulting in subsidence and the appearance of gaping holes.
Dr. Dindi’s warning is clear: “During periods of heavy rain, the risk of such subsidence increases. If there’s significant erosion, the surface can collapse into the voids below.” He advises anyone planning construction in the area to consult with geologists beforehand to avoid potential hazards. “It’s crucial for people to seek professional advice to determine safe locations for building,” he added. “We can use geophysical methods to identify potential cracks and avoid future issues.”
In response to the recent incident, local authorities have taken immediate action. The Nakuru West Sub-County Security team, Kenya Power and Lighting Company (KPLC), Kenya National Highways Authority (KENHA), and the Nakuru County Government Engineer have all visited the site. The area has been cordoned off to prevent accidents and ensure public safety. As of now, no injuries or fatalities have been reported.
“The area is under security surveillance,” stated the police report. “The immediate measures taken are aimed at mitigating any further risks.”
Dr. Dindi’s expertise underscores the importance of understanding and respecting the geological history of the region. As Nakuru grapples with the implications of this crack, the collaboration between geologists and local authorities will be crucial in ensuring the safety and preparedness of the community in the face of natural hazards.
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