Govt warns residents downstream of Nairobi Dam as water levels rise amid deadly floods

In a press statement, Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura called on Kenyans to stay alert as the country grapples with the aftermath of heavy rains that have caused widespread destruction and loss of life in several regions.

Mwaura said the government is closely monitoring the situation at the dam and has dispatched a technical team to assess its current condition.

“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,” he said.

He further warned that more rainfall is expected across different parts of the country between March 10 and March 16, 2026, raising the risk of additional flooding.

“Let us remain vigilant, follow official advisories and take precautionary measures, particularly those living in flood-prone areas,” Mwaura added.

His remarks come as the security department confirmed that at least 49 people have died following heavy rains that pounded the country last week.

According to the government, four people remain missing, while four others are receiving treatment in the hospital after sustaining injuries during flood-related incidents.

“Nairobi City County recorded the highest number of deaths at 27, followed by the Eastern region with 11, Rift Valley with five, and Coast and Nyanza regions with one death each,” Mwaura said.

The floods have also displaced more than 9,033 households nationwide. Nairobi recorded the highest number of displaced families at 5,260 households, followed by Rift Valley (2,538), Central (434), Nyanza (415), Coast (282), Eastern (58) and Western (46).

Counties hardest hit by the floods include Tana River, Kilifi, Kwale, Taita Taveta, Narok, Baringo, Nandi, Makueni, Kitui, Tharaka Nithi, Marsabit, Meru, Kiambu, Kisumu, Kisii, Homa Bay, Migori, Wajir and Nairobi.

Mwaura said the government has already put in place measures to support affected communities and strengthen emergency response efforts.

“The Government will cover mortuary fees and funeral expenses for those who lost their lives in the floods,” he added.