Residents living downstream of Nairobi Dam have been ordered to evacuate immediately after the Water Resources Authority warned the reservoir is on the verge of bursting following days of relentless heavy rainfall across the city.
In a notice dated Friday, March 20, the authority cautioned that rising water levels threaten to breach the dam’s embankments, raising fears of massive flooding in low-lying estates surrounding the Kibera area.
The internal letter, signed by Sub-county Coordinator Noel Ndeti, warned residents of an imminent flood risk. It urged those living or operating downstream to move swiftly to higher ground before the situation deteriorates further.
Areas directly affected include informal settlements within Kibera, Nyayo Highrise, Dam Estate, Lang’ata, Nairobi West and Madaraka. Residents were advised to remain vigilant and prioritize safety as water levels continue rising.
Other estates flagged as highly vulnerable include Mukuru Kwa Njenga, Mukuru Reuben, Viwandani, South B, Pipeline, Embakasi and parts of Industrial Area. Authorities fear that a breach could send large volumes of water surging downstream.
The dam, located along the Ngong River about five kilometres southwest of the Central Business District, has been under close watch as torrential rains pound Nairobi and its surrounding catchment areas.
Ten days ago, the government had already placed residents on high alert over possible fresh flooding. Officials noted that the reservoir was filling rapidly, prompting urgent technical assessments to determine structural stability.
Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura said authorities are closely monitoring the situation and conducting evaluations to establish the risks posed by the rising water levels.
Emergency teams are expected to coordinate evacuation efforts and provide guidance to affected communities. Residents have been urged not to ignore the advisory, as past flooding incidents have resulted in significant destruction and displacement.
