Nairobi Dam Opens Emergency Spillway Ahead of Expected Heavy Rains

The Nairobi Rivers Commission (NRC) has opened the emergency spillway at Nairobi Dam as part of preparations for the anticipated El Niño rains.

In a statement on Monday, October 19, the commission announced that water was already flowing through the spillway.

The NRC said the exercise was part of a coordinated effort involving multiple government agencies to address potential flooding and environmental concerns.

"The opening of the spillway is part of planned interventions aimed at enhancing the dam's preparedness for heavy rainfall while paving the way for its comprehensive restoration. The exercise forms part of a multi-agency approach to improving mitigating flood risks and restoring Nairobi's river ecosystems," the statement read.

The NRC also urged residents living downstream of Nairobi Dam to remain calm following the opening of the spillway, assuring them that the exercise was part of planned preparedness and restoration activities.

Source: Nairobi Leo