Emergency teams deployed as Kiambere dam reaches danger level
Emergency teams have been activated to oversee evacuations, manage spillages and provide support to communities downstream.
The government has moved to contain a possible disaster in the Lower Tana River region after Kiambere Dam exceeded its full supply level, putting thousands at risk of flooding.
Emergency teams have been activated to oversee evacuations, manage spillages, and provide support to communities downstream.
Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo said on Friday that the dam has risen beyond its capacity due to prolonged rainfall in the Mt Kenya and Aberdare catchment areas.
"We hereby issue an immediate voluntary evacuation directive to all communities living downstream of the multipurpose reservoir," Omollo said.
He said the most vulnerable areas include Garissa, Hola, Garsen, and the broader Lower Tana River basin.
Residents in those areas are being asked to move to higher ground without delay.
The government is working with KenGen, the National Disaster Operations Centre, and local response committees to coordinate the evacuation and monitor the situation closely.
"Controlled spillages are being undertaken to safeguard the structural integrity of the reservoirs," Omollo said.
He also said all available government resources are being deployed to prevent loss of life.
Local administrators have been directed to open public schools, churches and other government facilities as temporary shelters.
Meanwhile, public health officers are mobilising humanitarian aid and support services for affected families.
In addition to the Kiambere alert, Garissa and Tana River counties are also facing risks linked to the overflow of Masinga Dam.
Energy Principal Secretary Alex Wachira confirmed that the dam's water level had reached 1,057.15 meters above sea level, higher than its safe maximum of 1,056.5 meters.
"Inflows into the dam had reached 253.81 cubic meters per second," said Wachira.
He warned that ongoing rain could worsen the situation further.
Emergency protocols have been activated at both dams, with government agencies and local leaders working together to manage the risks.
