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Tana River flooding expected this weekend as Seven Forks dams release water downstream
An aerial photo of flooded roads along the Garissa-Mombasa road in Tana River County taken earlier during the el-nino floods in October 2023.
What you need to know:
- Heavy rainfall has caused a sharp rise in water inflows into the dams.
- Controlled releases are already underway at Kamburu, Gitaru and Kindaruma dams.
- Water levels in the Tana River expected to keep rising over the next few days.
Residents along the lower Tana River have been warned to move to higher ground ahead of an expected peak in flooding this weekend, as authorities manage rising water levels across the Seven Forks dam system.
The Ministry of Interior and National Administration said heavy rainfall in the upper Tana region, including areas around Mount Kenya, has caused a sharp rise in water inflows into the dams.
"Water levels in key reservoirs like Masinga Dam have risen sharply," the ministry said in a statement.
A shot of Masinga Dam overspill.
The ministry warned that conditions could worsen if rainfall continues or if Kiambere Dam reaches capacity. "If rainfall continues or if Kiambere Dam reaches its limit, more water may flow downstream, raising the risk of flooding in affected areas," it said.
Authorities confirmed that controlled water releases are already underway at Kamburu, Gitaru, and Kindaruma dams to manage the rising volumes.
However, according to the Ministry, the situation remains critical as water levels in the river are expected to keep rising over the next few days.
The Kindaruma hydro power station in Embu county is one of the Seven Forks dams that produce most of Kenya’s electricity. Photo/FILE
“Water levels along the Tana River are rising steadily from April 29,” the statement read, “and by Friday, May 1, levels may increase further, with some low-lying areas, especially in the lower basin and Tana Delta, likely to experience early flooding.”
The highest risk period has been projected to be between this weekend, Saturday, May 2, and Sunday, May 3.
During this period, water levels are expected to reach their peak, potentially triggering widespread flooding in areas including Garissa, Hola and Garsen, with floodwaters likely to extend into nearby floodplains and delta regions.
The Ministry further warns that the floodwaters may potentially spread across nearby floodplains and delta regions.
Residents have been urged to take early precautionary measures.
“Move to higher ground where possible, relocate livestock and secure essential belongings,” the Ministry advised.
It further warned against crossing rivers or walking through flowing water, advising the public to follow directives from local authorities and emergency response teams.
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