- The Kenya Met had earlier predicted that Cyclone Hidaya would likely hit the Kenyan Coastal areas anytime.
- Following the development in the Tanzania coastal area, Kenya Met says they are monitoring the situation.
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The Kenya Meteorological Department has said Tropical Cyclone Hidaya has landed on the Coast of Tanzania.
The Kenya Met had earlier predicted that Cyclone Hidaya would likely hit the Kenyan Coastal areas.
Following the development in the Tanzania coastal area, Kenya Met says they are monitoring the situation.
"Current observations indicate that Tropical Cyclone Hidaya has made landfall on the coast of Tanzania. However, there is another depression developing behind it, which the Department is monitoring closely," Kenya Met said.
The Kenya Met has asked residents of coastal regions and individuals involved in marine activities in the Indian Ocean to take maximum precautions.
Residents have also been asked to stay informed by regularly checking the latest weather forecasts and updates from the Kenya Meteorological Department.
"Seek guidance from experts in relevant fields to mitigate potential impacts. Stay safe and prepared!" Kenya Met said.
Heavy rainfall is expected offshore along the Kenyan coast from Sunday, May 5, intensifying on Monday, May 6, to Tuesday, May 7, 2024.
The effects of the cyclone are already being felt offshore, with strong winds exceeding 40 knots (20.6 m/s) and large waves surpassing two meters.
During his State of the Nation Friday at State House, President William Ruto said the Cyclone Hidaya could hit anytime even as he asked residents in the coastal areas to be cautious.
Ruto said the Kenya Meteorological Department and the IGAD Climate Prediction Applications Centre had issued a stark warning.
"Meteorological reports paint a dire picture. The rains will persist increasing both in duration and intensity for the rest of this month and possibly after," he said.
"The Cyclone is predicted to cause torrential rain, strong winds and powerful and dangerous waves, which could potentially disrupt marine activities in the Indian Ocean and settlements along the Kenyan coast."
The head of state said the country must act swiftly and decisively to mitigate the devastating impacts of the present crisis and protect life and property.
"The weight of tragic events in recent weeks has tested our nation's resilience in the wake of unprecedented challenges," he said.
"Persistent torrential rainfall has unleashed devastating floods, which have claimed 210 lives as of today, caused injuries to many more and wreaked havoc on property, infrastructure and livelihoods."