All Public Beaches In Mombasa Closed: Governor Orders
The decision follows a weather advisory issued by the Kenya Meteorological Department on Thursday, warning of strong southerly winds and high waves along the Kenyan coastline.
Viral Tea Ke Writer 
All public beaches in Mombasa have been ordered to close following a directive issued by Governor Abdulswamad Sherrif Nassir.
In a statement released on Friday, May 23, the governor announced the immediate closure of the beaches for a period of two days.
The decision follows a weather advisory issued by the Kenya Meteorological Department on Thursday, warning of strong southerly winds and high waves along the Kenyan coastline.
"Following the Meteorological Department’s alert on strong winds and high waves, I convened Mombasa’s Disaster Preparedness Committee.
Governor Abdulswamad Shariff Nassir and other county officials during a briefing at the governor's office in Mombasa County. /ABDULSWAMAD NASSIR
"We’ve resolved to close public beaches for two days, suspend ocean activities, and halt all construction work for public safety. Daily updates will be shared. Let’s remain alert and prioritise safety," he stated.
In addition to the beach closures, Governor Nassir also suspended all ocean-based activities, including both commercial and recreational ventures such as fishing and water sports, until further notice.
The governor also ordered a temporary suspension of construction activities due to the increased risk posed by strong winds, instructing contractors to properly secure their sites.
"The County Government will be issuing daily situation updates to inform the public and stakeholders of any changes or further directives," added the statement.
Residents and tourists were urged to strictly adhere to the safety guidelines. The county government assured the public that it is working in coordination with emergency and maritime agencies to manage the situation and protect both lives and property.
Mombasa is home to six main public beaches: Jomo Kenyatta (Pirates), Nyali, Bamburi, Shanzu, Shelly, and Tiwi. Other beaches along the North Coast include Maasai, English Point, Kanamai, and Kikambala, all of which are set to be affected by the latest directive.
Kenya Met had beforehand warned that strong southerly winds exceeding 30 knots (15.4 m/s) will affect the Coastal areas on Friday, with speeds expected to intensify to over 35 knots (18.0 m/s) on Saturday and Sunday. The winds are projected to ease to around 25 knots (12.9 m/s) by Monday, May 26.
Additionally, the department warned that residents in the coastal counties of Tana River, Mombasa, Kwale, and Kilifi should expect large ocean waves through Sunday.
Wave heights are predicted to rise above 2 metres between Friday and Sunday, then decrease to below 2 metres on Monday.
"Residents in all the mentioned areas are advised to be on the lookout for potential gale (very strong winds) and large waves over the Indian Ocean," Kenya Met announced.
Adding "Strong winds may blow off roofs and cause structural damage. Large waves may lower visibility and affect marine activities."
Regarding the likelihood of the events, the Kenya Meteorological Department indicated a moderate probability, estimating a 33 per cent to 66 per cent chance of occurrence.
A photo of large waves on an ocean. /MALINDIKENYA.NET
