Residents living along the lower stretches of the Tana River have been urged to move to safer areas as authorities warn of possible flooding caused by rising water levels.
In a statement, the Interior Ministry said heavy rains being experienced in the upper Tana region, including areas around Mt. Kenya, has increased the amount of water flowing into the Seven Forks dams, raising concerns over flooding downstream.
“Heavy rainfall in the upper Tana region, including areas around Mt. Kenya, has led to a significant increase in water flowing into the Seven Forks dams,” said the Ministry.
The government said water levels at major reservoirs such as Masinga Dam have risen sharply, forcing controlled water releases at Kamburu, Gitaru and Kindaruma dams to ease pressure.
It however, warned that continued rainfall or the filling up of Kiambere Dam could result in larger volumes of water flowing downstream, increasing the danger for communities living along the river.
“However, if rainfall continues or if Kiambere Dam reaches its limit, more water may flow downstream, raising the risk of flooding in affected areas,” the statement added.
According to the Ministry, water levels along the Tana River are expected to continue rising from April 29, with low-lying areas in the lower basin and Tana Delta likely to start experiencing flooding by May 1.
The government identified May 2 and May 3 as the period of highest risk, warning that flooding could affect areas including Garissa, Hola and Garsen.
Residents have been advised to move to higher ground, relocate livestock and protect important household items before the situation worsens.
Authorities also cautioned residents against attempting to cross flooded rivers or walking through moving water, urging them to follow instructions from local leaders and emergency response teams.
The warning comes amid forecasts of continued rainfall in several parts of the country.
The Kenya Meteorological Department said regions expected to receive heavy rains include the Highlands East and West of the Rift Valley, the Rift Valley, the Coast and North-eastern Kenya.
“Rainfall is expected to continue in several parts of the country most notably the Highlands East and West of the Rift Valley, the Rift Valley, the Coast and North-eastern Kenya,” said MET.
The department noted that rains are expected during morning and afternoon hours, with some areas also likely to experience night showers accompanied by thunderstorms.
