The Nairobi Dam spillway opening forms part of flood preparedness and restoration efforts.
The Nairobi Rivers Commission urges downstream residents to avoid flowing water as it prepares the dam for heavy rains and wider restoration.
The Nairobi Rivers Commission has opened the emergency Nairobi Dam spillway ahead of anticipated El Niño rains. The move aims to improve flood preparedness while supporting a wider restoration programme for the dam.
In a statement issued on Monday, commission Chief Executive Officer Joseph Muracia said water was now flowing through the spillway. He described the opening as a planned intervention to prepare for heavy rainfall and reduce downstream flood risks.
The commission is working with relevant government agencies and the Nairobi City County Government on the exercise. The work also forms part of broader efforts to restore Nairobi’s river ecosystems and improve flood management.
Nairobi Dam spillway opening prompts safety advice
Muracia urged people living downstream to remain calm because the opening forms part of ongoing preparedness and restoration work. However, he cautioned residents against approaching flowing water or river channels.
He also asked communities to stay alert and follow safety advisories from the relevant authorities. The commission warned that rainfall and other factors could change water levels and flow conditions.
Residents in potentially affected areas therefore need to exercise caution as conditions change. For updates on water levels, safety measures and further work at the dam, Muracia directed the public to official government communication.
The preparations come amid concerns that anticipated El Niño rains could put pressure on drainage systems and waterways. Heavy rainfall could consequently increase flooding risks in vulnerable parts of Nairobi.
Restoration work targets dam ecosystem
Alongside flood preparedness, the spillway opening supports the wider Nairobi Dam regeneration programme. That programme seeks to restore the water body and improve its surrounding environment.
Muracia said the commission would continue working with government agencies and other stakeholders to safeguard lives and protect the environment. The collaboration also aims to support the sustainable restoration of the dam and its ecosystem.
Forecast points to heavy rains across several regions
Meanwhile, the Kenya Meteorological Service said the October–December rainfall season had officially begun. Parts of western Kenya, the Rift Valley and the Coast had already recorded rainfall.
Other areas are expected to receive rain at different times through October. The seasonal outlook points to improved water and pasture supplies, but also risks of flooding, waterlogging and farming disruption.
The Coast and northeastern regions feature among areas likely to receive the heaviest rainfall. These include Kwale, Mombasa, Kilifi, Lamu and Mandera.
Parts of Taita Taveta, Tana River, Garissa and Wajir are also expected to record substantial rainfall.
In addition, the forecast indicates above-average rainfall across several central and southeastern counties. These include Makueni, Kajiado, Machakos, Nairobi, Kiambu, Murang’a, Kirinyaga, Embu, Tharaka Nithi, Meru, Isiolo, Nyandarua and Nyeri.
Parts of Marsabit, Laikipia, Nakuru and Narok are likewise expected to receive above-average rainfall.
