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State issues floods alert for Garissa, Tana River as Masinga Dam overflows
The mouth of the spillway of Masinga Dam where it joins Tana River.
The government Thursday sounded a floods alarm in Garissa and Tana River countries following the spilling of Masinga dam.
Energy Principal Secretary Alex Wachira said residents living in the Tana delta are at risk and advised them to move to higher ground.
The dam, the largest water reservoir for power production, has surpassed its capacity of 1056.5 meters above sea level. Currently, the level is at 1057.15 meters and is expected to rise further going by increased rains, with inflow of 253.81 cubic meters per second.
The PS asked residents especially those within Garissa and Tana River to be careful as they risk being swept away by floods, and advised those living near the river banks to relocate immediately.
"As the Ministry responsible for Energy, we wish to reassure Kenyans that the government is closely monitoring the situation across the Seven Forks hydropower cascade dams and is coordinating all relevant agencies to respond swiftly and decisively to protect lives, livelihoods and infrastructure," Mr Wachira said.
He assured the residents that the government will continue to provide regular updates and ensure that necessary support is extended to affected communities.
The PS reaffirmed government commitment to strengthening the resilience of Energy Sector, protecting communities and working hand -in- hand with all stakeholders to navigate the challenges posed by climate change.
Already, the overflows are causing panic among residents from the surrounding areas and those in the lowlands.
“Also, there are plans to raise the dam by 1.5 metres to hold more water and avoid overflowing so that there will be no flooding in the lowlands,” the PS said, adding that the cost of electricity may go down if the rains continue.
The KenGen Chief Executive Officer, Peter Njenga said that given the current trend and the forecasts, they have witnessed a natural overflow of Masinga from April 30 due to increased inflows from the Aberdares and Thiba river.
He revealed that Kiambeere dam also has risen to 700.27 meters, against it's full capacity of 700 meters above sea level.
The dam straddles the border of Embu and Machakos counties and is the main water hold of the iconic seven forks hydro-electric power project.