Kenya Met Issues Warning for Strong Winds and Ocean Waves This Weekend

Kenya Met has warned of impending strong winds and high ocean waves from May 23 to May 25, affecting various counties, especially coastal regions. Residents are advised to stay alert due to potential weather-related disruptions and safety concerns, as winds may exceed 35 knots and waves may rise above two meters, coinciding with persistent heavy rains.

The Kenya Meteorological Department (Kenya Met) has issued an alert for strong winds and high ocean waves expected this weekend, from May 23 through May 25. The warning particularly targets citizens living along the Coast, southeastern lowlands, and northwestern regions of Kenya. Those in counties such as Marsabit, Turkana, and Mombasa should prepare for intense weather conditions as the situation develops.

According to Kenya Met, wind speeds may exceed 30 knots, with waves potentially reaching over two meters. This could lead to property damage and disruptions in marine activities. For Saturday and Sunday, wind speeds are forecasted to increase further, surpassing 35 knots, before conditions begin to calm on Monday.

Coastal counties, including Tana River, Mombasa, Kilifi, and Kwale, are warned to anticipate challenging ocean conditions. Residents are urged to remain vigilant about gale-force winds and large waves in the Indian Ocean, which might also reduce visibility at sea, impacting fishing and shipping operations.

Kenya Met has specifically cautioned that these powerful winds could result in serious hazards, including roofs being blown off and potential structural damage to buildings. Additionally, “Large waves may lower visibility and affect marine activities,” according to the department. The forecast suggests a moderate probability, between 33 and 66 percent, for these weather events to occur.

This warning comes in the wake of ongoing heavy rains across various parts of Kenya that have resulted in flooding and the displacement of families. The department expects rainfall to continue in the Highlands, Rift Valley, and the Lake Victoria Basin, along with the coast and northwestern regions, with nighttime temperatures potentially dipping to 9°C.

As the weekend approaches, it is vital for residents in the affected areas to stay alert and prepare for possible adverse effects due to the changing weather conditions. Continuous monitoring of weather updates from Kenya Met is highly recommended, especially for those engaged in marine activities or living in vulnerable areas.

The Kenya Meteorological Department has flagged strong winds and high ocean waves for this weekend, warning residents in several counties, particularly coastal ones, to prepare for potentially severe conditions. These events may lead to disruptions and safety hazards due to the forecast of intensifying winds and waves. Amid this alert, ongoing rainfall is adding to the risks, requiring vigilance from the public.

Original Source: eastleighvoice.co.ke