NAIROBI, Kenya — The government has issued a fresh warning over escalating flood risks across the country as heavy rains continue to push key dams along the Tana River cascade toward full capacity, raising concerns over possible spillovers and downstream flooding.
In a press statement released by Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura, the State said water levels in major dams have risen significantly, prompting increased monitoring and controlled water releases to prevent structural damage and downstream disasters.
“As of the evening of April 28, 2026, Masinga Dam was reported as full, prompting controlled water releases to prevent damage,” the statement noted.
Other major dams, including Kamburu, Gitaru, and Kindaruma, are also being actively regulated to maintain safe operational levels.
Authorities warned that the Kiambere Dam is expected to begin spilling within five days if inflows from the Aberdares and Mount Kenya regions continue.
The National Disaster Operations Centre (NDOC) said the situation has heightened flood risks in downstream counties, particularly Garissa and Tana River, where residents in low-lying areas have been urged to move to higher ground immediately.
“Residents in low-lying areas, especially in Garissa and Tana River counties, are strongly urged to move to higher ground immediately to protect lives and property,” the statement read.
The government further reported a fatal incident in Nairobi’s Roysambu Sub-County, Zimmerman area, where a 29-year-old woman drowned on April 28, 2026, after being swept away by fast-moving rainwater near Turners Club. Police said the body was retrieved and taken to City Mortuary as investigations continue.
The statement extended condolences to the bereaved family, noting that the incident is under inquiry by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) Kasarani.
Flooding has also been reported across parts of Nairobi North Sub-Region, with Kasarani among the worst affected.
In Kasarani Sub-County, the Street 13 bridge towards Mwiki was submerged by the Gatharaini River, rendering it impassable.
Several homes were flooded, including 20 houses in Maanguo, 60 in the Maternity area, and 30 in Muirigo.
In Mwiki, the Nairobi River has overflowed its banks, with flooding reported along Njeri House–Nyawaya Road and ACK Street areas.
Emergency response teams, including the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF), have been deployed to manage the situation.
The government, through NDOC and other agencies, said it is maintaining continuous surveillance and coordinating emergency response efforts as rainfall is expected to persist in several parts of the country.
Authorities have urged the public to adhere to official advisories, avoid crossing flooded roads and bridges, and report emergencies to local disaster management offices.
“Kenya Itainuka, Kenya Itasimama, Kenya Itanawiri, Kwa Umoja na Uzalendo,” the statement concluded, calling for unity and vigilance during the ongoing weather crisis.
