The Kenya Meteorological Department has cautioned of rough to very rough sea conditions along Kenya’s coastal and offshore waters, urging fishers, mariners and other marine users to exercise caution.
In a warning on Friday, Kenya Met said strong winds were expected over the coastal waters, with locally stronger gusts possible in some areas, potentially creating hazardous conditions for vessels operating at sea.
The department said east-south-easterly to south-south-westerly winds were expected, with speeds ranging from four to 24 knots, equivalent to approximately two to 12 metres per second.
“Sea conditions are expected to range from light to rough, with locally very rough seas possible in areas experiencing stronger winds and higher waves,” the weatherman said.
The department cautioned mariners, fishers and other people using the sea to take extra precautions, particularly in areas expected to experience rough to very rough conditions.
“Small boats and other vessels operating in exposed waters should take appropriate safety precautions and closely monitor official marine weather updates,” the department also warned.
The warning highlights the risks that changing wind and wave conditions can pose to maritime activities, particularly for small vessels that may be more vulnerable to strong winds and rough seas.
Fishers operating along the coastline and in offshore waters have been urged to remain alert to changing conditions and assess the safety of their planned activities before venturing out to sea.
Marine users have also been advised to pay attention to official forecasts and any subsequent advisories from the meteorological department as conditions develop.
Strong winds can generate higher waves and make navigation more difficult, especially in exposed waters. Rough seas may also affect the stability of small boats, increasing the risks faced by crews and passengers.
Kenya Met's advisory covers the country's coastal and offshore waters, although the severity of the conditions is expected to vary depending on local wind strength and wave activity.
The department said locally very rough seas were possible where stronger winds and higher waves occur, underscoring the need for marine users to exercise particular care in affected areas.
The warning comes as a precautionary measure to help those operating at sea make informed decisions about their activities and take steps to protect lives and vessels.
Kenya Met urged members of the maritime community to remain vigilant and follow official marine weather updates for further information on sea and wind conditions.
