Residents living downstream of Nairobi Dam have been urged to move to higher ground following an urgent warning from the Water Resources Authority (WRA) over a looming flood risk caused by rising water levels.
In a notice issued on Sunday, March 22, 2026, WRA Nairobi Sub-Regional Coordinator Noel Ndeti cautioned that continuous heavy rainfall has significantly increased water levels in the reservoir, placing pressure on the dam’s embankment. Authorities fear that part of the earthen barrier could give way, triggering flooding in surrounding areas.
“Due to the ongoing heavy rains, residents living downstream of the Nairobi Dam are warned of imminent flood risk due to the rising water levels in the reservoir that threaten breaching of the dam embankment,” the notice stated.
The agency has called on residents and business operators in affected areas to remain vigilant and take immediate precautionary measures, including relocating to safer, elevated locations.
Areas under the evacuation advisory include Kibera, Nyayo Highrise, Dam Estate, Lang’ata, Nairobi West, and Madaraka, with other nearby neighborhoods also placed on high alert as officials continue to monitor the situation.
The warning comes amid a broader weather alert issued by the Kenya Meteorological Department, which has forecast moderate to heavy rainfall exceeding 20 millimetres within 24 hours across Nairobi and its environs through Monday morning.
Authorities emphasize that early action is critical to prevent loss of life and property, urging residents not to wait until conditions worsen. Emergency response teams remain on standby as the situation develops, with close monitoring of the dam’s structural integrity and water levels.
As heavy rains persist, the risk of flooding continues to grow, placing vulnerable communities on edge and highlighting the urgent need for preparedness and swift response.
