Energy CS Chirchir warns Kamburu, Kiambere, Masinga dams nearing overflow

Energy Cabinet Secretary Davis Chirchir has cautioned residents residing downstream of Kamburu and Kiambere dams, in Machakos and Kitui counties respectively, to remain vigilant as the man-made water bodies can overflow at any moment.

Addressing journalists on Saturday, CS Chirchir noted that the dams' water levels have been rising at .7 of a metre daily owing to heavy downpours recorded across the regions.

"We are closely monitoring the impact of these heavy rains and are prepared to take all necessary action to ensure the safety of our people," he said.

"We have activated our emergency response system and working closely with local authorities to monitor the situation and we are now receiving daily inflows, outflows and how the dams are rising."

Based on how the water levels at the two dams are increasing, Chirchir further estimated that Masinga Dam, also in Machakos County, will fill up within a week.

"They are now rising at about .7 of a metre every day and that means that a dam like Masinga can take another seven days to fill. So if these rains continue in seven days, we will see some spillage," he said.