Lake Kamnarok

Lake Kamnarok and Lake Kanyaboli in Alego, Siaya County.
Lake Kamnarok in the middle of Kerio Valley when viewed from Anin Escarpment,Above Songeto
Location of Lake Kamnarok in Kenya.
Location of Lake Kamnarok in Kenya.
Lake Kamnarok and Lake Kanyaboli in Alego, Siaya County.
Location of Lake Kamnarok in Kenya.
Location of Lake Kamnarok in Kenya.
Lake Kamnarok and Lake Kanyaboli in Alego, Siaya County.
LocationKerio Valley
Coordinates0°38′N 35°37′E / 0.633°N 35.617°E / 0.633; 35.617
Typeoxbow lake
Primary inflowsKerio River
Primary outflowsKerio River
Basin countriesKenya
Surface area1 km2 (0.39 sq mi)

Lake Kamnarok is a seasonal lake and one of the few ox-bow lakes in Kenya,[1] found at the base of the Kerio Valley. The name originated from the Kalenjin word Narok, which is used to refer to a species of water plant that was widely found in the lake. Thick mash surrounds the lake, making accessibility challenging.

The lake occupies an area of approximately 1 km2 however being a seasonal lake, the size may at times be much smaller. It was in existence before 1961 but the flood rains of that year led to its enlargement. The flooding disaster saw people living in the area being evacuated in order to save lives. Helicopters were used during the evacuation exercise to airlift people to the higher ground of Maab Konga - a hill near Muchukwo trading centre.

  1. ^ "Lake Kamnarok National Reserve". 15 January 2019.