Government Raises Alarm as Deadly Floods Hit Nairobi and Tana Basin, Urges Immediate Evacuations
The Kenyan government has issued an urgent nationwide alert following deadly flooding incidents and rising water levels in major dams, as heavy rains continue to pound several parts of the country.
In a press statement delivered by Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura, authorities confirmed a tragic incident in Roysambu, Nairobi, where a 29-year-old woman lost her life after being swept away by fast-moving rainwater near Turners Club on the night of April 28. The victim’s body was later retrieved but she was already deceased. Officers from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations documented the scene, and investigations are currently underway.
The government extended condolences to families affected by the ongoing floods, acknowledging the growing human toll caused by the relentless rains.
Meanwhile, concern is mounting over rising water levels along the Tana River cascade. Key dams including Masinga Dam, Kamburu Dam, Gitaru Dam, and Kindaruma Dam have reached critical levels, prompting controlled water releases to protect infrastructure. Authorities have warned that Kiambere Dam could begin spilling within days if inflows persist.
This has significantly heightened the risk of downstream flooding, particularly in Garissa County and Tana River County, where residents in low-lying areas have been urged to move to higher ground immediately.
In Nairobi’s Kasarani Sub-County, the situation remains dire. The Gatharaini River has submerged the Street 13 bridge toward Mwiki, rendering it impassable, while dozens of homes in areas such as Maanguo, Maternity, and Muirigo have been flooded. Additional flooding has been reported along key access roads in Mwiki, further complicating movement and rescue efforts.
Emergency response teams, led by the Kenya Defence Forces and coordinated through the National Disaster Operations Centre, are actively managing the crisis and assisting affected residents.
The government has called on all Kenyans to remain vigilant, follow official advisories, and report emergencies promptly. With heavy rains expected to persist, authorities emphasize that cooperation between citizens and agencies will be critical in minimizing loss of life and property during this period.