Govt Orders Immediate Evacuation in Six Nairobi Estates as Dam Threatens to Burst

Residents living near Nairobi Dam have been ordered to evacuate immediately following fears that the reservoir could burst due to rising water levels caused by ongoing heavy rains.

In a directive issued by the Water Resources Authority (WRA), households located downstream of the dam have been urged to move to higher ground without delay to avoid a potential disaster.

According to the notice dated Friday, March 20, the dam—situated in Kibera along the Ngong River—is at risk of breaching its embankments after days of persistent rainfall.

“Due to the ongoing heavy rains, residents living downstream of Nairobi Dam are warned of imminent flood risk due to the rising water levels in the reservoir that threaten breaching of the dam embankment,” read part of the internal communication signed by Sub-county Coordinator Noel Ndeti.

Estates Affected

The government has specifically instructed residents in the following areas to vacate immediately:

Kibera informal settlements
Nyayo Highrise
Dam Estate
Lang’ata
Nairobi West
Madaraka

Residents have been advised to remain vigilant and prioritize their safety by relocating to safer areas.

More Areas on High Alert

Authorities have also placed several downstream estates on high alert due to possible flooding. These include:

Mukuru Kwa Njenga
Mukuru Reuben
Mukuru Viwandani
South B
Pipeline
Embakasi
Industrial Area

Government Monitoring Situation

Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura confirmed that authorities are closely monitoring the situation and conducting technical assessments at the dam.

“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 stated earlier.

Heavy Rains Worsen Situation

The Kenya Meteorological Department has warned that moderate to heavy rainfall, accompanied by isolated thunderstorms, will persist across Nairobi and surrounding areas.

Forecasts indicate rainfall could exceed 20mm within 24 hours, with heavier downpours expected in areas such as Dagoretti, Kibra, parts of Embakasi, and Lang’ata.

On Friday, the heavy rains already caused major disruptions, with flooding reported along Moi Avenue and Mombasa Road, although no fatalities were reported.

Residents are now being urged to act swiftly as authorities warn that the situation could deteriorate further if rains continue.