Jomo Kenyatta International Airport is the focus of KAA’s preparations for anticipated El Niño weather conditions.
Water pumps, blackout tests and drainage works are among measures KAA is taking to protect JKIA operations, airport users and nearby communities.
The Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) has strengthened flood and power contingency measures at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) as it prepares for anticipated El Niño weather conditions.
The preparations cover emergency response equipment, drainage, electricity supply and access routes. KAA said the aim is to keep airport operations running while reducing risks to passengers, employees, neighbouring communities and essential infrastructure during adverse weather.
The authority outlined the measures at a stakeholder briefing at JKIA led by Managing Director and CEO Moses Wekesa. General Manager of Engineering Meshack Ochieng and JKIA Airport Manager Rose Koros also participated.
Water pumps and blackout tests
KAA said it has placed water pumps in locations identified as vulnerable to flooding. The deployment forms part of its contingency preparations for weather-related disruptions at the airport.
The authority has also carried out full-load blackout tests to assess JKIA’s readiness for possible interruptions to electricity supply. These checks are among the steps being taken to examine how the airport would cope with disruptions affecting essential services.
Emergency vehicles, equipment and communication systems are being tested as part of the wider preparedness programme. KAA is also reviewing access routes and contingency plans to strengthen its response arrangements.
Together, the checks cover both the resources needed during an emergency and the arrangements for coordinating a response. KAA said protecting airport users and surrounding communities remains part of that work.
Drainage works and infrastructure inspections
Drainage clearance and rehabilitation are also included in the preparations. KAA said it is working with the Kenya National Highways Authority, Nairobi City County and other partners on these measures.
Alongside the drainage work, the airport is inspecting critical facilities to identify weaknesses and assess whether essential infrastructure can withstand adverse weather conditions.
The inspections and operational tests form part of KAA’s broader effort to address potential vulnerabilities before anticipated weather conditions create challenges. The authority’s stated priorities include reducing flood risks and limiting interruptions to airport activity.
Early warning system pilot
KAA is also working with Haskoning Engineering through the Government of the Netherlands to pilot early warning systems aimed at improving its ability to anticipate and respond to flooding.
The authority said the system is expected to support flood preparedness, situational awareness, forecasting and operational planning at JKIA. It is being piloted alongside the physical and operational measures already outlined.
KAA described the preparations as a proactive approach to maintaining airport operations during adverse weather while safeguarding people and infrastructure. It said continued coordination among airport stakeholders would remain central to both preparedness and response efforts.
