The Water Resources Authority (WRA) has issued a flood warning for communities downstream of the Nairobi Dam, advising residents to move to higher ground due to rising water levels.
In the notice dated March 20, 2026, the authority cautioned that continued rainfall has significantly increased the risk of flooding in areas downstream of the dam. Residents in affected zones have been advised to remain alert and reduce exposure to possible flood impacts.
“Due to the ongoing heavy rains, residents living downstream of the Nairobi Dam are warned to minimize flood risk due to rising water levels,” read part of the notice.
According to the order issued under the Water Act 2016, people living downstream of the Nairobi Dam are required to relocate to higher ground without delay. The directive states that the action is necessary to minimize potential loss of life and property as water levels continue to rise.
The precautionary order applies to communities located downstream of the dam within Nairobi. The Water Resources Authority noted that the situation requires immediate compliance, setting the deadline for action as “immediately.”
“The necessary action is to mitigate the potential risks associated with the breach of the dam,” noted the Authority. They further added,” Everyone living downstream of the dam is cautioned to be vigilant and relocate to higher ground.”
Also Read: Floods Alert: Kenya Met Maps Out High-Risk Hotspots, Announces Weeklong Rain
The authority has also instructed the receiving party to notify WRA once the order has been complied with.
Nairobi Dam has previously been identified as a flood‑risk area during periods of intense rainfall, with downstream settlements often facing the threat of sudden water surges. Authorities continue to urge residents to prioritize safety and follow official guidance as weather conditions persist.
Weather Forecast Signals Heightened Flood Risk as Rains Persist
The precautionary order was issued following a weather forecast from the Kenya Meteorological Department on March 20, which warned of moderate to heavy rainfall across several regions of the country between March 20 and 21, including Nairobi and surrounding areas.
The department cautioned that the rains could trigger flooding, flash floods, rising river levels, and reduced visibility, especially in low‑lying and flood‑prone locations.
Members of the public were advised to avoid flooded roads, refrain from walking or driving through moving water, and remain alert as weather conditions persist.
The forecast has raised concerns about managing water infrastructure, with rising rainfall levels increasing pressure on dams and rivers and prompting early safety measures for communities living downstream.
Also Read: Flood-Prone Roads Kenyans Should Beware of and Alternative Routes
Nairobi Dam Added to List of Flood-Risk Areas After Days of Rainfall
Following days of heavy rainfall across several parts of the country, the Tana and Athi Rivers Development Authority (TARDA) said it is closely monitoring water levels in key dams to manage increased inflows.
An update released on March 20, 2026, shows that water levels at the Seven Forks dams have risen but remain under control. Masinga Dam was recorded at 1053.23 metres, about 3.27 metres below full capacity, while Kamburu stood at 1001.91 metres, roughly 3.13 metres below full.
Gitaru and Kindaruma dams were close to their usual upper levels at 923.09 metres and 779.83 metres, respectively, while Kiambere was at 694.92 metres, leaving more room to hold additional water.
According to TARDA, all the dams have working spillways, meaning excess water can be safely released if levels continue to rise, and members of the public have been urged to stay informed as the rain persists.
