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Kenya Meteorological Department has warned residents in 15 counties to be careful of “very strong winds” and “very large waves over Indian Ocean.” The counties are Marsabit, Turkana, Samburu, Isiolo, Mandera, Wajir, Garissa, Kitui, Makueni, Taita Taveta, Tana River, Lamu, Kilifi, Mombasa and Kwale.
Kenya Meteorological Department said there would be strong southerly winds over the counties and large waves over the Kenyan Indian Ocean. It expects this to start on 16 July and end on 20 July 2021, 11am.
The department’s Director Stella Aura said strong southerly winds of more than 55 kilometres per hour are expected over the 15 counties from 16 July. The wind speed is expected to strengthen to more than 74 kilometres per hour on 17 and 18 July.
“Thereafter, the wind speed is likely to reduce to 30 knots [55 kilometres per hour] from Monday, 19 July and Tuesday, 20 July 2021,” Ms Aura said. She gave the statement on 15 July 2021.
In addition, the department expects ocean waves of more than 2.6 metres high over the Kenyan Indian Ocean from 17 to 19 July. The wave height would reduce to 2.4 metres on 20 July.
What must residents do?
The warning goes to Marsabit, Turkana, Samburu, Isiolo, Mandera, Wajir, Garissa, Kitui, Makueni, Taita Taveta, Tana River, Lamu, Kilifi, Mombasa and Kwale counties.
Residents must watch out for likely very strong winds and very large waves over the Indian Ocean.
“Strong winds may blow off roofs, uproot trees and cause structural damages,” Ms Aura said. “Very high waves may lower visibility, cause capsising of boats and threaten the safety of those engaging in maritime activities.”
She advised residents in the affected counties to listen to their area radio and television for current information.
“Updates will be provided if conditions change significantly,” the director said. “Further advisories maybe issued as the weather events evolve.”
The department has graded the forecast as moderate probability of occurrence, which means there is between 33% and 66% chance of the events happening.
