The Kenya Meteorological Department has issued a high-flood-risk alert to residents in parts of the Tana River Basin.
In its latest flood early warning advisory issued on Wednesday, April 29, Kenya Met warned that rising water levels and continued heavy rainfall at the Tana River could trigger flooding in the coming days.
The agency, in the advisory covering the period between April 28 and May 4, 2026, said moderate to heavy rainfall is expected across the basin over the next seven days, following sustained rains recorded in the past week.
“The latest flood early warning bulletin for the Tana River Basin indicates a high risk of flooding over the coming days,” Kenya Met warned.
High Flood Risk Alert for Tana River Basin as Water Levels Rise
According to Kenya Met, water levels at the Garissa Gauge Station are projected to rise significantly, reaching about 6.4 meters by May 2. This is well above the flood warning threshold of 5.0 meters.
The weatherman warned that river levels are also expected to remain elevated for several days before gradually declining early next week.
Areas with a high risk of flooding include Garissa, Hola, and Garsen, with low-lying, flood-prone zones likely to be most affected.
The forecast indicates that water levels at Saka are projected to reach around 4.8 metres, while Garissa is expected to record an average of 6.4 metres. In Hola, levels are predicted to rise to approximately 5.1 metres, and in Garsen, around 4.2 metres.
Kenya Met cautioned that flooding may disrupt transport, damage property, and affect livelihoods in communities living near riverbanks.
Also Read: Kenya Met Issues Advisory as Nairobi Experiences Unexpected Afternoon Rainfall
Residents have been advised to avoid crossing flooded roads and rivers, move to higher ground where necessary, and follow instructions from local authorities and emergency response teams.
Tana River County has borne the brunt of extreme weather patterns, oscillating between prolonged drought and recurrent flooding.
For years, the county and the communities that call it home have been forced to contend with the growing pressures of climate change.
Also Read: Weatherman Lists Nairobi Estates Expected to Experience Heavy Rainfall This Week
Weatherman Warns of Floods, Landslides in Select Regions
Elsewhere in the country, heavy rainfall is expected to persist, particularly in the highland and coastal regions.
Authorities have warned of possible flash floods and landslides in vulnerable areas, including steep, hilly terrain.
Reduced visibility is also expected to pose risks to road users.
Kenya Met forecasts significant temperature variations across the regions.
Daytime temperatures are expected to exceed 30°C in parts of the Coast, southeastern lowlands, northeastern, and northwestern Kenya.
Meanwhile, nighttime temperatures may drop below 10°C in some highland areas, including the central Rift Valley and regions around Mount Kenya.
