Kenya Maritime Authority Warns of Dangerous Sea Conditions Along Coast

Kenya’s maritime authorities have warned of hazardous sea conditions along the country’s coastline from September to December, with strong winds, rough seas, high waves, heavy rainfall and poor visibility expected.

The Kenya Maritime Authority (KMA), in a notice signed by Director General Omae Nyarandi on 21 September, said the conditions could pose risks to tourism, fishing and coastal communities, particularly in Mombasa, Kilifi, Kwale and Lamu counties.

The authority has instructed boat owners to secure their vessels, whether they are sailing or anchored. Passengers and crew members must wear life jackets at all times.

Tourists planning beach holidays or sea excursions have been advised to stay out of the water during adverse weather. Fisherfolk have also been urged to postpone non-essential trips when conditions deteriorate.

Vessels already at sea should monitor weather forecasts and move to safe harbour when necessary. Coastal residents have been advised to remain alert to storms and follow official guidance.

The KMA said weather updates should be obtained only from the Kenya Meteorological Department and the authority. It also advised that emergencies be reported directly to the Regional Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (RMRCC), which will remain on standby throughout the season.

The advisory comes as changing weather patterns continue to affect marine activities along the East African coast. Coastal economies remain particularly exposed to extreme weather because tourism, fishing and other livelihoods depend heavily on stable marine conditions.

The latest forecast from the Kenya Meteorological Department indicates that 22 counties are expected to receive heavy rainfall, with coastal areas likely to experience some of the heaviest showers. In contrast, northern counties including Mandera and Turkana are expected to experience temperatures of up to 37°C, accompanied by strong winds of more than 25 knots.

The contrasting conditions highlight the range of weather risks facing different parts of the country, from heavy rainfall in the south to high temperatures and strong winds in the north. The warnings could affect coastal tourism as the festive season approaches, while fishing communities may face interruptions to their normal activities. 

The KMA has urged residents, tourists, fisherfolk and maritime operators to remain vigilant and follow official weather and safety guidance as the adverse conditions continue through the final quarter of the year.