Mosiria issues advisory alert to Nairobi residents amid flooding fears
By William Muthama, August 18, 2025Nairobi County Chief Officer for Environment, Geoffrey Mosiria, has warned residents living along riverbanks to relocate as heavy rains continue to batter the city.
In a statement on Monday, August 18, 2025, Mosiria highlighted that rapid urbanisation and construction have left much of the city covered in concrete, reducing natural soil absorption.
“Nairobi is currently experiencing heavy rains. With the city’s growing population and increased construction, much of the ground is now covered by concrete, reducing natural soil absorption,” Mosiria said.
He explained that rainwater flows directly into drainage channels, overwhelming infrastructure not designed to handle such volumes.
Clearing drainage systems
“Our Environment Support Staff and Emergency Response Teams have been activated to unblock and clear drainage systems across the city,” Mosiria added.
He also urged residents to cooperate by avoiding dumping waste on road reserves and open spaces, warning that blocked drains have worsened past floods.
“Every Nairobi resident has a role to play. Supporting efforts to keep drainage channels clear can prevent unnecessary flooding,” he said.
Residents living on riparian land have been instructed to move back at least 30 meters on both sides of rivers while the county government implements long-term drainage improvements.
“This precaution will help prevent the risk of being swept away by rising waters,” Mosiria advised.
He concluded by reminding Nairobians that collective action is key to protecting lives and property. “Together, we can mitigate unnecessary flooding and safeguard lives and property. Please stay safe,” he said.
The Kenya Meteorological Department had earlier on Friday, August 15, 2025, announced that several parts of the country, particularly the Lake Victoria Basin, the Rift Valley, and the Western Highlands, would receive rainfall. These regions are set to experience more than 20 mm of rain as well as relatively strong winds.
The meteorological department has forecasted moderate to heavy rainfall for Nairobi. Other counties expected to experience significant rainfall include Narok, Baringo, Nakuru, Trans Nzoia, Uasin Gishu, Elgeyo Marakwet, Nyandarua, Murang’a, and Kiambu.