The Kenya Meteorological Department has issued an urgent weather advisory warning residents of the Coast region to brace for continued strong southerly winds through May 25. The advisory follows a spate of marine accidents, including four boat capsizing incidents reported in Kilifi and Lamu Counties.
According to the Met Department, winds are expected to exceed 35 knots in some coastal areas, accompanied by wave heights reaching up to two metres. “Strong southerly winds continue over much of the Coast and Eastern Kenya through 24–25 May. Gusts may reach over 35 knots in some areas. Coastal waters remain choppy with wave heights around 2.0m,” the advisory stated.
The warning comes amid rising concerns over marine safety. In the latest incident in Lamu East’s Chanu Channel, a boat carrying four individuals capsized. The Kenya Red Cross reported that three of the passengers were rescued after being found in Kiwayuu, but one person remains missing.
On Saturday morning, three more boats capsized in separate incidents in Vidazini and Mnarani (Kilifi) and Mutuni (Lamu), with multiple individuals rescued despite rough sea conditions. Authorities and volunteers have continued search and rescue operations despite the treacherous waters.
In response to the escalating danger, Mombasa County Governor Abdulswamad Sheriff Nassir announced the closure of all public beaches over the weekend. He said the move was a resolution of the county’s Disaster Preparedness Committee after receiving the weather alert.
“We’ve resolved to close public beaches for two days, suspend ocean activities, and halt all construction work for public safety. Daily updates will be shared,” said Nassir, adding that the beaches could remain closed on Monday if the weather does not improve.
The Met Department has further extended its advisory to residents in the southeastern lowlands and northwestern Kenya, including Marsabit, Turkana, Samburu, and Garissa, among other counties. The strong winds are likely to disrupt outdoor and marine activities and could potentially cause structural damage.
Residents and marine users are urged to stay informed, avoid unnecessary sea travel, and follow local authority guidance until conditions improve.
