By Ken Muthomi - Reporter
Kenya, April 29, 2026 - The government has urged residents living in flood-prone areas to immediately move to higher ground following rising water levels in key dams along the Tana River caused by ongoing heavy rains.
In a statement on Wednesday, Government spokesperson Isaac Mwaura cautioned that Masinga Dam had reached full capacity and had heightened the risk of flooding downstream, particularly in Garissa and Tana River counties.
Mwaura has, however, said that the government is undertaking controlled water releases to prevent structural damage. Kamburu, Gitaru, Kindaruma, and Kiambere are also being closely regulated to maintain safe operational levels.
“These measures are critical to safeguard the structural integrity of the dams, especially given the substantial inflows from the Aberdares and Mount Kenya regions. It is anticipated that Kiambere Dam will begin spilling within the next five days due to continued inflows,” Mwaura said.
“These developments have heightened the risk of flooding downstream, particularly in Garissa and Tana River counties. The Government, through the National Disaster Operation Centre (NDOC) and relevant agencies, continues to closely monitor the situation while coordinating preparedness and response efforts,” he added.
Mwaura has further confirmed that the government has deployed disaster response teams, including the Kenya Defence Forces, to spearhead rescue operations in flood-hit areas, including Nairobi.
In Nairobi, Tuesday's heavy rains caused devastating floods that led to the loss of lives and displaced hundreds of residents across several estates, as well as damaging other vital infrastructures.
Families living in low-lying areas, including Kasarani, Roysambu, and surrounding neighbourhoods, were the most affected following this week's heavy downpour, according to Mwaura.
The government has further cautioned residents living near the Nairobi River, especially in Mwiki, to vacate to higher grounds since it remains swollen and is nearing breaking its banks.
“The general public is advised to remain vigilant as heavy rains are expected to persist across various parts of the country. The Government will maintain continuous surveillance and provide timely updates,” Mwaura said.
“We call upon all citizens to strictly adhere to official advisories, report emergencies promptly to the nearest disaster management offices, and cooperate fully with authorities,” he added.
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