Nairobi Dam spillway opened ahead of El Niño rains

Nairobi Rivers Commission has opened the emergency spillway at Nairobi Dam in preparation for anticipated El Niño rains, authorities announced on Monday. The spillway opening is part of a broader effort to restore the dam and its surrounding ecosystem, according to the commission's CEO, Joseph Muracia. Water is now flowing through the spillway as part of planned interventions to enhance the dam's readiness for heavy rainfall and minimize the risk of flooding in downstream areas.

Muracia urged residents downstream of the dam to remain calm and follow safety advisories issued by relevant authorities, warning against approaching the flowing water or river channels. The opening of the spillway is linked to the ongoing Nairobi Dam regeneration programme, which aims to improve the dam and its environment. Heavy rains are expected during the October-December rainfall season, raising concerns about flooding in vulnerable parts of Nairobi, but also potentially improving water and pasture supplies.