The Kenya Maritime Authority (KMA) has issued a severe weather warning for the coastal strip, effective from September to December 2026. According to KMA, rough sea conditions, strong winds, high waves, heavy rainfall, and reduced visibility are expected, posing a risk to vessels and individuals engaging in activities at sea and along the coastline. This warning has significant implications for fisherfolk, boat operators, and anyone planning activities on or near the ocean.
KMA Director-General, Omae Nyarandi, has advised fishermen in coastal counties, including Mombasa, Kwale, Kilifi, and Lamu, to exercise caution when venturing into the sea. The public is urged to avoid the sea during adverse weather and rough sea conditions. There is also a possibility of surging waves during high tide times in low-lying coastal areas. Nyarandi assured the public that KMA will provide continuous monitoring and timely updates as the situation evolves.
To ensure safety, KMA recommends that boat owners and operators secure their vessels properly, while passengers and crew wear life jackets. Fisherfolk and stakeholders are advised to postpone non-essential activities at sea when conditions deteriorate. Vessels already at sea should monitor weather updates and seek safe shelter if necessary to avoid thunderstorms accompanied by gusty winds.
The KMA advisory also urges coastal communities to remain alert to strong winds, high waves, and heavy rainfall, and to follow instructions from relevant authorities. The public is encouraged to monitor official weather and maritime safety information from the Kenya Meteorological Service Authority (KMSA) and KMA. In case of maritime incidents and emergencies, the public can report to the Regional Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (RMRCC) using the provided phone numbers.
This warning coincides with Mombasa County's preparations for the anticipated El Niño rains. The KMSA has announced an enhanced rainfall forecast for the October to December 2026 short rains season, with high temperatures expected in the coastal region. Mombasa is among the high-risk urban centers flagged by the government to experience heavy, above-average rainfall and potential flooding.
Scientists describe El Niño as a naturally occurring climate phenomenon characterized by abnormal warming of Pacific sea surface temperatures. The World Meteorological Association warns that El Niño could bring droughts, flooding, heat waves, and displacement of people worldwide. The international weather agency cautions that the anticipated heavy rainfall could have far-reaching consequences across various sectors, including transportation, agriculture, health, and infrastructure.
In response to the heavy rain forecasts, rough seas, and high tides, the Mombasa County government has intensified coastal safety measures. Lifeguards have been deployed across different areas of the beach to monitor the situation and prevent any untoward incidents. The public is advised to take necessary precautions and follow the instructions of relevant authorities to ensure their safety.
Key points
- The Kenya Maritime Authority has warned of rough sea conditions along the coastline from September to December 2026.
- The warning coincides with Mombasa County's preparations for the anticipated El Niño rains.
- The public is urged to monitor official weather and maritime safety information from the Kenya Meteorological Service Authority and KMA.
