The Lower Eastern Times Opening The Third Eye
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The government has issued an urgent advisory for residents in the Lower Tana River Basin to voluntarily evacuate, citing the growing threat of severe flooding due to heavy rains and rising dam levels.
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Interior Principal Secretary Dr. Raymond Omollo appealed to communities living downstream of the Seven Forks hydropower dams—especially in Garissa and Tana River counties—to move to safer, higher ground immediately.
“Critical areas at risk include Garissa, Hola, Garsen, and the wider Lower Tana River region. We urge all residents to relocate without delay,” said Omollo in an official statement.
This warning comes after a sharp increase in water inflow from the Mt. Kenya and Aberdare catchment areas into the cascade of dams.
Dr. Omollo noted that Kiambere Dam, the last in the series, has surpassed its safe capacity, significantly raising the risk of flooding in downstream areas.
“The threat of major flooding is real and could occur at any moment,” he cautioned.
In response, the government has activated its emergency protocols, coordinating efforts among the National Disaster Operations Centre, KenGen, local disaster committees, and National Government Administrative Officers (NGAOs).
The Kenya Meteorological Department has forecast continued rainfall from Friday, May 16, through Tuesday, May 20, which could further aggravate the situation.
Authorities are also closely monitoring upstream dams—Masinga, Kamburu, Gitaru, and Kindaruma—with KenGen managing controlled water releases to ensure dam safety.
As a precaution, schools, churches, and government buildings are being prepared to serve as temporary shelters for displaced residents.
Support teams from the Kenya Red Cross Society and the Kenya Coast Guard Service (KCGS) have been deployed to assist with evacuation and humanitarian aid.
Dr. Omollo emphasized the urgency of the situation and urged all residents in flood-prone areas to follow official guidance.
“Your safety comes first. We appeal to everyone in at-risk zones to act swiftly and cooperate fully with emergency personnel to prevent loss of life,” he said.
