Kenya’s government has urged residents living downstream of the Nairobi Dam to remain on high alert as water levels continue to rise following days of heavy rainfall that have triggered deadly floods across several parts of the country.
Government spokesperson Isaac Mwaura said authorities are closely monitoring the situation at the dam and have dispatched a technical team to assess its structural condition and the potential risks posed by the rising water levels.
“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 in a statement.
Heavy Rains Expected to Continue
The warning comes as meteorological forecasts indicate that more rainfall is expected across the country between March 10 and March 16, 2026, increasing the likelihood of additional flooding, particularly in low-lying and flood-prone areas.
Authorities have called on residents to follow official advisories, take precautionary measures, and avoid areas at risk of flooding.
Floods Claim Dozens of Lives
The heavy rains that pounded Kenya last week have already caused significant devastation.
According to government figures, at least 49 people have died in flood-related incidents across the country. In addition:
Four people remain missing
Four others are receiving treatment in hospital after sustaining injuries
Nairobi recorded the highest number of fatalities with 27 deaths, followed by the Eastern region with 11, the Rift Valley with five, while the Coast and Nyanza regions reported one death each.
Thousands Displaced Nationwide
The flooding has also displaced more than 9,033 households across the country.
Nairobi again reported the highest number of affected families with 5,260 households displaced, followed by:
Rift Valley – 2,538 households
Central region – 434 households
Nyanza – 415 households
Coast – 282 households
Eastern – 58 households
Western – 46 households
Several counties have been severely affected by the flooding, including Tana River, Kilifi, Kwale, Taita Taveta, Narok, Baringo, Nandi, Makueni, Kitui, Tharaka Nithi, Marsabit, Meru, Kiambu, Kisumu, Kisii, Homa Bay, Migori, Wajir and Nairobi.
Government Support for Affected Families
Mwaura said the government has activated emergency response measures to assist communities affected by the disaster.
Among the measures announced, the government will cover mortuary and funeral expenses for victims who lost their lives during the floods, as part of broader humanitarian support.
Authorities say emergency teams continue to monitor water levels, assist displaced families, and coordinate rescue and relief operations as Kenya braces for more rainfall in the coming days.
