The Kenyan government has identified 59 flood-prone areas across Tana River County as the country grapples with escalating flooding risks linked to rising water levels at the Seven Forks Dam.

According to a statement from the Ministry of Interior, the majority of the high-risk zones—32 in total—are located in Tana Delta Sub-County. Other affected areas include 10 in Tana River Sub-County, eight in Bangale Sub-County, six in Tarasaa Sub-County, and three in Tana North Sub-County.

The mapping exercise follows recent alerts warning of increased flooding due to swelling river levels, particularly along the lower stretches of the Tana River.

Authorities have urged residents in vulnerable zones to remain vigilant and relocate to higher ground when advised.

The situation in Tana River reflects a wider national crisis. As of May 2, 2026, at least 18 people have lost their lives due to flooding across the country, most of them in drowning incidents.

The Eastern Region has recorded the highest number of fatalities at nine, followed by the Central Region with three.

The Coast Region, Nairobi, and Rift Valley have each reported two deaths.

In Nairobi, floods have affected approximately 6,600 residents, displacing families and damaging infrastructure including roads, schools, and homes across several sub-counties.

Meanwhile, central counties such as Kirinyaga County and Kiambu County have reported widespread destruction, with areas like Mwea West alone displacing around 3,000 people.

In the Eastern region, Makueni County has recorded the highest number of fatalities, alongside significant damage caused by flash floods and mudslides, which have destroyed homes and disrupted transport and power infrastructure.

Authorities highlighted that low-lying areas within Tana Delta—such as Feji, Kiembe, Halubha, Kipini, and Ozi Mtangani—are especially vulnerable due to their geography. Similar risks persist in parts of Bangale, Tana North, and Tarasaa sub-counties.

The government, working with multi-agency response teams, continues to monitor the evolving situation and coordinate emergency interventions. Residents living along the Lower Tana River and other flood-prone regions nationwide have been advised to stay alert and follow official safety directives.

Officials emphasized that preparedness and timely evacuation remain critical in preventing further loss of life as heavy rains continue across Kenya.