Tana River Governor Dhadho Godhana has issued an urgent evacuation order to residents living along River Tana and other flood-prone areas following continued heavy rainfall and rising water levels across the region.
The county government warned that the situation could deteriorate rapidly as the Seven Forks dams edge closer to full capacity, raising fears of massive flooding downstream if excess water is released.
Speaking during a press briefing, Governor Godhana urged residents not to ignore the warning, saying lives were at risk if communities delayed moving to safer ground.
“We are asking all residents living near the river banks and in low-lying areas to relocate immediately because the water levels may rise suddenly and endanger lives,” said Godhana.
The governor noted that previous flood disasters in the county had demonstrated how quickly River Tana could overflow after prolonged rainfall upstream.
Authorities said emergency response teams had already been placed on standby as rainfall continues in several parts of the country.
Emergency Shelters and Relief Prepared
The county administration has identified temporary evacuation centres located on higher ground to accommodate affected families.
According to Governor Godhana, the shelters have been stocked with emergency food supplies, blankets, bedding materials and basic medical support for evacuees.
County Commissioner Joseph Mwangi said chiefs and assistant chiefs had been instructed to enforce evacuation directives to minimise casualties in vulnerable villages.
“We do not want residents to wait until roads are cut off or homes submerged before they move. Early evacuation is the safest option,” Mwangi said.
Livestock owners were also advised to relocate their animals immediately to avoid losses once floodwaters spread into grazing fields and settlements.
Government assessments have identified dozens of flood-prone zones across the county, with the Tana Delta region recording the highest number of vulnerable areas.
Among the locations under close monitoring are Kipini, Ozi, Feji, Salama, Bura, Madogo, Bondeni and Mororo.
Long-Term Plans to Reduce Flood Displacement
The warning comes as floods continue to disrupt lives in several counties across Kenya, with neighbouring Garissa already reporting widespread displacement.
Thousands of families in Garissa have reportedly sought refuge in schools, police stations and emergency camps after floodwaters swept through villages and farms.
Governor Godhana said the county government was now working on long-term solutions to reduce repeated displacement caused by annual flooding.
He revealed that plans are underway to begin the construction of affordable housing units in safer settlement zones later this month.
The governor also appealed to residents to cooperate with authorities and treat evacuation notices with urgency.
“As the rains continue upstream, we must prioritise safety and protect lives before the situation worsens,” he said.
