The Kenya Meteorological Department has issued an alert for strong winds expected to affect 15 counties between Friday and Sunday.
The counties likely to be impacted include: Marsabit, Turkana, Samburu, Isiolo, Mandera, Wajir, Garissa, Kitui, Makueni, Taita Taveta, Tana River, Lamu, Kilifi, Mombasa, and Kwale.
Speaking during a televised interview, the Director of Meteorological Services, Dr. David Gikungu, attributed the expected strong southerly winds to intensified ocean currents in the Indian Ocean.
“Winds exceeding 30 knots are expected across the Coast, South-Eastern Lowlands, and North-Western Kenya on Friday. These are forecast to strengthen to over 35 knots by Saturday and Sunday,” Dr. Gikungu explained.
He noted that wind speeds are expected to ease to around 25 knots on Monday.
The department also cautioned about rough sea conditions, with wave heights along Kenya’s coastline projected to exceed two meters over the weekend before subsiding on Monday.
Dr. Gikungu advised residents in the affected areas to remain alert, warning that the strong winds could lead to structural damage, including blown-off rooftops.
Mariners and those involved in coastal activities were also urged to take extra precautions, as “large waves may reduce visibility and disrupt marine operations” throughout the weekend.
