All public beaches in Mombasa County will be closed over the weekend following an alert from the Kenya Meteorological Department warning of adverse weather conditions, including strong winds and large ocean waves.
Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Sheriff Nassir announced the precautionary closure on Friday, stating that beaches would be off-limits on Saturday and Sunday, with a possible extension into Monday should weather conditions remain severe.
“We’ve resolved to close public beaches for two days, suspend ocean activities, and halt all construction work for public safety,” said Governor Nassir, following a meeting of the County Disaster Preparedness Committee.
“Daily updates will be shared.”
The Kenya Meteorological Department has projected wave heights of up to 2.5 meters, coupled with southerly winds exceeding 35 knots (18.0 m/s) over the weekend.
Such weather conditions pose a significant danger to beachgoers, fishermen, and coastal infrastructure.
“All fishermen have been informed. People involved in construction near the shore have been asked to suspend their work. We’ve also reached out to the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) to help enforce the closure,” Nassir added.
The advisory affects not only Mombasa but other coastal and inland counties, including Tana River, Lamu, Kwale, Kilifi, Kitui, Makueni, and Turkana, where residents have been urged to brace for possible wind damage and flooding.
According to the Met Department, the strongest winds are expected on Saturday and Sunday, before easing on Monday.
Residents are advised to avoid open water activities, secure loose items, and remain updated through official communication.
Authorities have pledged strict enforcement to prevent access to beaches and ensure the public remains safe throughout the period.
