Residents living near Nairobi Dam and downstream areas have been placed on high alert after the government warned of possible fresh flooding as water levels at the reservoir continue to rise.
Authorities say several estates in Nairobi, including Kibera, Nyayo Highrise, Dam Estate, Lang’ata, Nairobi West and Madaraka, are at risk if the situation worsens.
The warning comes after days of heavy rainfall that has already caused widespread flooding in Nairobi and other parts of the country.
Government warns residents to stay alert
Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura said authorities are closely monitoring the situation at Nairobi Dam while technical experts assess the risks posed by the rising water levels.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, March 10, Mwaura urged residents living downstream to remain vigilant as the government evaluates the stability of the dam.
“The government is closely monitoring the rising water levels at Nairobi Dam and advises residents living downstream to remain alert. A technical assessment of the dam is currently underway,” Mwaura said.
Nairobi Dam is located along the Ngong River in the Kibera area, about five kilometres southwest of Nairobi’s central business district.
Officials warn that informal settlements around Kibera would likely be the first areas affected if the dam were to overflow or burst.
Several estates likely to be affected
Authorities say flooding could spread beyond Kibera if water levels continue to rise.
Neighbouring estates including Mukuru slums, particularly Kwa Njenga, Reuben and Viwandani, have also been identified as high-risk areas.
Other locations that could experience flooding include South B, Pipeline, Embakasi and parts of the Industrial Area.
Many of these neighbourhoods have previously experienced severe flooding during periods of heavy rainfall.
Rescue teams deployed amid rising flood deaths
The government has already deployed emergency response teams to strengthen rescue operations in areas affected by floods.
Mwaura said authorities were working with disaster response agencies to support communities affected by the ongoing rains.
Police reports indicate that at least 49 people have died following the recent heavy downpours across the country.
Nairobi recorded the highest number of fatalities, with 27 deaths, as floods swept through homes and businesses.
The rains have also damaged infrastructure, including 16 police stations, according to police.
Government promises support to affected families
As rescue operations continue, the government has pledged support to families who lost loved ones during the floods.
Mwaura said the government would cover mortuary fees for victims who died as a result of the flooding.
Meanwhile, the Kenya Meteorological Department has warned that rainfall is expected to continue in several regions, including the Rift Valley, Lake Victoria Basin and Western Kenya.
Authorities have urged residents living in flood-prone areas to move to safer ground where necessary and follow safety advisories issued by local officials.
Experts say continued rainfall could worsen flooding if drainage systems remain overwhelmed.
