The Kenya Meteorological Department has cautioned residents of the coast region to take more precautions as strong winds are expected to continue.
According to Met, the winds are expected to reach over 35 knots in some parts with waves rising as high as 2 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," Met said.
“Residents and marine users are advised to stay informed and take routine precautions."
The precaution followed a number of incidents where boats capsized, with the latest incident being in the Chanu Channel, Lamu East.
Four individuals were on board at the time of the incident, but Red Cross confirmed that three people had been rescued.
They were found at Kiwayuu, but one person remains missing.
On Saturday morning, three boats capsized in incidents reported at Vidazini and Mnarani in Kilifi and Mutuni in Lamu.
Several people were rescued as search efforts continued despite rough sea conditions.
On Friday, the Mombasa County government announced the closure of all public beaches on Saturday and Sunday after the Meteorological Department warned of adverse weather conditions at the coast.
Governor Abdulswamad Sheriff Nassir said the beaches will remain closed on Monday if the weather does not improve.
The governor noted that a meeting of Mombasa’s Disaster Preparedness Committee resolved to close the beaches after the Meteorological Department warned of strong winds and high waves.
“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,” he stated.
The Kenya Meteorological Department has advised Kenyans living in the Coast, the southeastern lowlands, and the northwestern regions of the country to brace for strong winds over the next three days.
Kenya Met issued an advisory on Friday, May 23, warning residents of Marsabit, Turkana, Samburu, Isiolo, Mandera, Wajir, Garissa, Kitui, Makueni, Taita Taveta, Tana River, Lamu, Kilifi, Mombasa, and Kwale to be on the lookout for strong winds that could cause destruction.
According to the weather department, strong southerly winds of more than 30 knots (15.4 m/s) were expected over the Coast, the southeastern lowlands, and northwestern Kenya on Friday, May 23, 2025.
