The Kenya Forest Service (KFS) has barred members of the public from accessing sections of Karura Forest following heavy rainfall that has caused rivers within the forest to overflow.
In a statement on Friday, March 6, KFS said the ongoing rains have led to flooding in some areas of the forest, forcing authorities to close several trails for safety reasons.
“Due to the ongoing heavy rainfalls, rivers flowing through Karura forest have burst their banks. As a result, paths leading to the caves, waterfalls and bridges have been closed off,” the statement read.
KFS further warned visitors against attempting to access the restricted areas, urging the public to remain cautious and follow directions issued by forest officials.
“No member of the public is allowed to get into that area, until further notice. The public is advised to exercise caution and report to the Foresters office for any concerns,” the statement added.
Photos obtained by Uzalendo News show a section of Karura Forest where a river has overflowed, flooding a footpath and a small bridge.
The muddy brown water has partially submerged the metal railings along the trail.
This is not the first time Karura Forest has been hit by flooding. In 2024, heavy rains also caused rivers to overflow, damaging trails and infrastructure.
Kenyans had been warned that such incidents could become more frequent as extreme weather continued to affect the country.
