By Ongaga Ongaga
The Kenya Maritime Authority (KMA) has issued a public safety warning over potentially hazardous weather and sea conditions expected along the Kenyan coast from September through December 2026.
In a notice dated September 21, KMA said the period could bring strong winds, rough seas, high waves, heavy rainfall and reduced visibility, creating risks for vessels and people carrying out activities at sea and along the coastline.
Also Read
“The conditions may include strong winds, rough seas, high waves, heavy rainfall and reduced visibility,” KMA said.
The authority has urged members of the public to avoid going to sea during periods of adverse weather, while boat owners and operators have been advised to properly secure vessels that are underway, moored or anchored.
KMA also called on passengers and crew to wear life jackets while aboard vessels and urged fisherfolk and other maritime users to postpone non-essential activities when conditions deteriorate.
“Fisherfolk and other stakeholders should exercise extreme caution and postpone non-essential activities at sea when conditions deteriorate,” the authority said.
The warning comes as the Kenya Meteorological Department (KMD) continues issuing daily and seven-day marine forecasts covering the coastal counties of Kwale, Mombasa, Kilifi and Lamu.
KMD’s latest seven-day marine forecast is valid from September 24 to September 30, 2026.
KMA also advised vessels already at sea to closely monitor weather updates and move to safe shelter where necessary.
Coastal communities have similarly been urged to remain alert to strong winds, high waves and heavy rainfall.
“The public is urged to continuously monitor official weather and maritime safety information,” KMA said.
The authority has also asked the public to report maritime incidents and emergencies to the Regional Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (RMRCC). The centre operates around the clock, according to KMA.
