The government has warned of heightened flood risks in parts of the country following heavy rains that have led to rising water levels in key dams along the Tana River cascade.

Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura said on Wednesday that Masinga Dam had reached full capacity, necessitating controlled water releases to safeguard its structural integrity.

“As of 8.00 pm on April 28, Masinga Dam was reported as full, necessitating controlled releases,” Mwaura said. “Kamburu, Gitaru and Kindaruma dams are also being actively regulated to maintain safe operational levels due to substantial inflows from the Aberdares and Mount Kenya regions.”

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He added that Kiambere Dam is expected to begin spilling within the next five days if inflows persist.

“These developments have heightened the risk of flooding downstream, particularly in Garissa and Tana River counties,” he said.

The National Disaster Operation Centre is coordinating preparedness and response efforts with relevant agencies. Mwaura said the NDOC is closely monitoring the situation and urged residents in low-lying areas to move to higher ground immediately.

“Residents in low-lying areas, especially in Garissa and Tana River counties, are strongly urged to move to higher ground to protect lives and property,” he said. “Local authorities and community leaders must disseminate this information widely and facilitate safe evacuations where necessary.”

In Nairobi, flooding has already claimed one life.

Mwaura said an unidentified woman aged about 29 was swept away by fast-moving rainwater in Roysambu subcounty on April 28 at about 10.30 pm near Turners Club in Zimmerman.

“The victim drowned in a ditch and was retrieved by well-wishers but was already deceased at the time of rescue,” he said.

Officers from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations visited the scene, which was processed by crime scene investigators from Kasarani.

The body was taken to the City Mortuary awaiting identification and post-mortem examination. The case is pending inquiry under DCI Kasarani.

“The government extends its heartfelt condolences to the family and loved ones of the deceased, and to all those affected by loss during this flooding period,” Mwaura said.

In the Nairobi North sub-region, several areas in Kasarani subcounty have been affected by rising water levels.

In Kasarani location, the Street 13 bridge towards Mwiki has been submerged by the Gatharaini River and is currently impassable. At least 20 houses in Maanguo area, 60 in Maternity area and 30 in Muirigo area have been flooded.

In Mwiki location, the Nairobi River is swollen but has not broken its banks. Flooding has also been reported along the Njeri House-Nyawai Road at ACK Street 5 to 7.

The Kenya Defence Forces are leading the disaster response team managing the situation in Kasarani.

Mwaura said heavy rains are expected to persist in various parts of the country and urged the public to remain vigilant.

“The government will maintain continuous surveillance and provide timely updates. We call upon all citizens to strictly adhere to official advisories, report emergencies promptly to the nearest disaster management offices and cooperate fully with authorities,” he said.

He said coordinated efforts between state agencies and communities will be critical in mitigating the impact of the ongoing rains and preventing further loss of life.