The Kenya Red Cross has reported that on Saturday, May 24, three boats capsized across two Kenyan counties of Lamu and Kilifi, days after the Kenya Meteorological Department warned of strong winds.
In a statement, the first responders' organisation reported that several victims were rescued and the operations were still ongoing on Saturday evening despite rough waters.
In addition to the Red Cross, the Coast Guard, KMA and Beach Management Units (BMUs), alongside beach patrol and lifeguard support from the County Governments of Mombasa, Lamu, and Kilifi, were also in the rescue.
The early morning incidents took place at Vidazini and Mnarani in Kilifi and Mutuni in Lamu.
"Three boat capsize incidents were reported this morning — at Vidazini and Mnarani in Kilifi and Mutuni in Lamu. Several people have been rescued, with search efforts ongoing despite rough sea conditions."
"Our teams are on the ground supporting offshore response, medical evaluation and lifeguard services. Deep sea rescue efforts are being supported by the Coast Guard, KMA and Beach Management Units (BMUs), with beach patrol and lifeguard support from the County Governments of Mombasa, Lamu and Kilifi."
These incidents came just a day after Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Sherrif Nassir ordered the closure of the beaches for two days, effective immediately.
Through a statement released on Friday, May 23, Nassir ordered the closure of the beaches for two days, following a warning by the Kenya Meteorological Department of strong southerly winds and large waves along the Kenyan Coast.
The governor also announced the suspension of ocean-based activities, both commercial and recreational, to avoid any incidents in the ocean.
Other activities like fishing and water sports were suspended until further notice.
Aside from ocean activities, he also announced a temporary halt to construction activities due to the high risk posed by wind-related hazards, instructing contractors to secure their sites appropriately.
He further promised to issue daily situation updates to keep the public and relevant stakeholders informed of any changes or further directives.
