The Kenya Meteorological Department has issued a warning of strong winds and large waves expected to sweep across several parts of the country between June 13 and June 18, urging residents and emergency services to remain on high alert.
In a statement signed by Director David Gikungu, the department said southerly winds exceeding 25 knots (12.9 metres per second) will begin affecting the North-eastern, North-western, South-eastern lowlands, and coastal regions from Friday afternoon.
The winds are expected to intensify to over 30 knots (15.4 metres per second) between Saturday, June 14, and Tuesday, June 17, before subsiding to 25 knots on Wednesday, June 18.
Gikungu also warned of increasing wave activity along the Kenyan Coast, noting that wave heights could reach 2.5 metres on Friday, peak at 2.8 metres over the weekend, and drop below 2.4 metres by midweek.
Counties likely to be affected include Lamu, Kilifi, Mombasa, Kwale, Tana River, Taita Taveta, Marsabit, Turkana, Samburu, Isiolo, Mandera, Wajir, Garissa, Kitui, and Makueni.
“Wave heights are likely to be more than 2.5 metres over the Kenya coastal waters on Friday. 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 stated.
The department warned that the strong winds and high waves could lead to uprooted trees, property damage, poor visibility, and disruptions to marine operations. It stressed that very high waves pose a serious risk to lives and infrastructure.
Kenyans have been advised to stay informed through official weather updates, with the department assuring continuous advisories throughout the period.
“Citizens are encouraged to follow official Kenya Meteorological Department channels for accurate forecasts and safety guidance,” the statement read in part.
The alert has also been shared with key government agencies, including the Office of the President, relevant ministries, the National Disaster Operations Centre, Kenya Ports Authority, Kenya Red Cross, and coastal county governments, to ensure preparedness and prompt emergency response where necessary.
