All public beaches in Mombasa are to be closed following a directive by Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Sherrif Nassir.
Through a statement released on Friday, May 23, Nassir ordered the closure of the beaches for two days, effective immediately.
The orders were informed by an advisory by the Kenya Meteorological Department released on Thursday, where they warned of strong southerly winds and large waves along the Kenyan Coast.
Aside from the closure of the beaches, the governor announced the suspension of ocean-based activities, both commercial and recreational. Consequently, activities such as fishing and water sports were suspended until further notice.
The governor also directed a temporary halt to construction activities due to the high risk posed by wind-related hazards. Contractors were therefore instructed to secure their sites appropriately.
Nassir disclosed that the county would issue daily situation updates to keep the public and relevant stakeholders informed of any changes or further directives.
Residents and visitors were urged to comply fully with the safety measures. The county added that it was working closely with emergency and maritime agencies to manage the situation and safeguard lives and property.
Mombasa currently has six major public beaches: Jomo Kenyatta (Pirates), Nyali, Bamburi, Shanzu, Shelly, and Tiwi.
Additional beaches include Maasai, English Point, Kanamai, and Kikambala, which are located along the North Coast.
According to Kenya Met, strong southerly winds of more than 30 knots (15.4 m/s) were expected over the Coast.
Wind speeds were expected to strengthen to over 35 knots (18.0 m/s) on Saturday, May 24, and Sunday, May 25, before subsiding to 25 knots (12.9 m/s) on Monday, May 26.
In the advisory, Kenya Met noted that wave heights were likely to exceed 2 metres over the coastal waters from Friday, May 23 to Sunday, May 25, before reducing to below 2 metres on Monday.
It went on to warn: “Strong winds may blow off roofs and cause structural damage. Large waves may lower visibility and affect marine activities.”
