NAIROBI, Kenya – The Kenya Meteorological Department has issued a weather alert warning of strong winds and turbulent sea conditions set to affect several regions across the country starting Friday, June 13.
In an advisory signed by Director David Gikungu, the department forecasts southerly winds exceeding 25 knots (12.9 m/s) in the North-eastern, North-western, South-eastern lowlands, and coastal regions.
The winds are expected to peak at over 30 knots (15.4 m/s) between Saturday and Tuesday before slightly easing on Wednesday, June 18.
“People in all the mentioned areas are advised to be on the lookout for potential gale (very strong winds) and large waves over the Indian Ocean,” Gikungu cautioned.
Rough Seas Ahead
The weatherman also flagged the risk of unusually high wave activity along the Kenyan Coast.
On Friday, wave heights may surpass 2.5 metres, rising to about 2.8 metres over the weekend before receding to below 2.4 metres by midweek.
Counties expected to bear the brunt of the adverse weather include Lamu, Kilifi, Mombasa, Kwale, Tana River, Taita Taveta, Marsabit, Turkana, Samburu, Isiolo, Mandera, Wajir, Garissa, Kitui, and Makueni.
Residents in affected regions have been urged to exercise caution, with potential hazards including uprooted trees, property damage, reduced visibility, and dangerous sea conditions.
Agencies on High Alert
The Meteorological Department has shared the warning with key government agencies and disaster response units, including the Presidency, Kenya Ports Authority, Kenya Red Cross, and county governments in coastal and inland regions.
The move is aimed at bolstering readiness in case of emergencies during the five-day weather event.
The department pledged to provide timely updates and advised the public to monitor official channels for accurate forecasts and safety information.
