The Kenya Maritime Authority (KMA) has issued an urgent advisory warning of rough seas, strong winds, and heavy rainfall along the coast from September to December 2026. The advisory targets major tourist counties including Mombasa, Kilifi, Kwale, and Lamu, urging caution for water-based activities. This warning was released on September 21 and signed by KMA Director General Omae Nyarandi.
The advisory warns that the period between September and December 2026 will bring strong winds, rough seas, high waves, heavy rainfall, and reduced visibility across the coastal region, creating considerable danger for anyone at sea. Boat owners and operators have been instructed to properly secure their vessels whether underway, moored, or at anchor. All passengers and crew are required to wear life jackets while on board vessels.
Tourists planning beach holidays or water excursions have been urged to exercise extreme caution and to avoid entering the sea during periods of poor weather. Fisherfolk and other maritime stakeholders have similarly been advised to postpone non-essential sea activities whenever conditions worsen. Vessels already at sea are required to continuously monitor weather updates and seek safe harbour when necessary.
Coastal communities have additionally been told to stay alert to incoming strong winds and heavy rainfall and to comply with guidance from relevant authorities. The KMA has directed the public to rely solely on official information from the Kenya Meteorological Department and the KMA itself when tracking weather and maritime safety developments.
Anyone encountering a maritime emergency during the period can reach the Regional Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (RMRCC). The authority noted that the advisory follows heightened concern over ongoing climate patterns that have already disrupted marine operations along the Kenyan coast. Authorities have called on all stakeholders to remain vigilant and monitor official channels throughout the season.
The Kenya Meteorological Department issued a 24-hour weather forecast, which predicts rainfall across 22 counties, including Kakamega and other parts of western, central, and coastal Kenya. The advisory covers conditions from Saturday evening to Sunday evening, with coastal counties expected to receive the heaviest showers.
Coastal and northern areas have also been warned of strong winds exceeding 25 knots, while Mandera and Turkana could record temperatures as high as 37°C. The sharp contrast between widespread rainfall and dry, extreme heat in the north offers a detailed picture of Kenya’s changing weather conditions.
Key points
- The Kenya Maritime Authority has put tourists, coastal residents, and maritime operators on high alert over hazardous sea conditions expected to persist along Kenya's coastline through the end of the year.
