10 Buildings You Should Take Shelter in When Nairobi CBD Floods

Wendy Nyambura 21 hours ago

Heavy rains in Nairobi often bring an unwelcome problem: flooding. Roads become impassable, businesses close early, and pedestrians are left searching for safe places to wait out the rising water.

In the heart of the city, several large buildings and landmarks have become common shelter points for people caught in sudden floods.

One of the most recognizable places is the Kenyatta International Convention Centre, located along Harambee Avenue on the edge of the Central Business District.

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The expansive compound and elevated grounds often attract pedestrians looking for a dry and secure place during heavy downpours.

Buildings to Shelter in Nairobi CBD

Nearby, workers and commuters also take refuge around Times Tower along Haile Selassie Avenue. The building, which houses the Kenya Revenue Authority headquarters, has wide entrances and sheltered areas where people can temporarily wait as floodwaters subside.

Along Kenyatta Avenue, the area around Teleposta Towers and the adjacent Central Park also offers some relief from flooding. Many pedestrians rush there when nearby streets begin to fill with water.

Further up University Way stands Anniversary Towers, home to several government offices, including the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission. The building’s raised entrance area has frequently served as a temporary waiting point during storms.

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In Upper Hill, modern skyscrapers such as UAP Old Mutual Tower and Britam Tower are located in relatively elevated parts of the city, making them safer zones when lower sections of the CBD flood.

Other Buildings

Other buildings commonly used for temporary shelter include the Nation Centre on Kimathi Street, I&M Bank Tower along Kenyatta Avenue, and the historic City Hall located next to City Hall Park.

While these locations are not officially designated flood shelters, their size, accessibility and elevated entrances make them practical refuge points for Nairobi residents and visitors seeking safety during sudden flooding.

As climate patterns shift and heavy rains become more frequent, urban preparedness remains a growing concern for the city.

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