Mombasa County shuts public beaches, suspends marine and construction activities amid storm alert
This follows a warning issued by the Kenya Meteorological Department on Thursday, forecasting strong southerly winds and high waves along the Kenyan coast.
Mombasa Governor Abdullswamad Sherrif Nassir has ordered the immediate closure of all public beaches for two days and indefinitely suspended all marine and ocean-related commercial and recreational activities, including fishing and water sports.
This follows a warning issued by the Kenya Meteorological Department on Thursday, forecasting strong southerly winds and high waves along the Kenyan coast.
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The winds are forecast to reach speeds of up to 25 knots (approximately 12.9 meters per second), with wave heights climbing to 2.5 meters, posing a serious threat to public safety, maritime activity, and coastal infrastructure.
“All public beaches in Mombasa County will remain closed for two days, effective immediately, and all marine-related commercial and recreational activities, including fishing and water sports, are suspended until further notice to ensure public safety,” stated Governor Abdullswamad Sherrif Nassir in a statement.
This suspension aims to prevent accidents and casualties during the period of hazardous weather.
Recognising the dangers posed by the strong winds, Governor Abdullswamad also directed a temporary halt to all ongoing construction work across the county.
Contractors have been instructed to secure their sites appropriately to prevent accidents caused by wind-related hazards.
“Due to the high risk posed by strong winds, all ongoing construction work across the county must cease immediately, with contractors directed to secure their sites,” stated the governor.
Following the Meteorological Department’s alert on strong winds and high waves, I convened Mombasa’s Disaster Preparedness Committee.
— Abdulswamad Sheriff Nassir (@A_S_Nassir) May 23, 2025
We’ve resolved to close public beaches for two days, suspend ocean activities, and halt all construction work for public safety. Daily updates… pic.twitter.com/oE4oJR5QUU
“The County Government will be issuing daily situation updates to inform the public and stakeholders of any changes or further directives.”
Governor Abdullswamad said the decision was reached following comprehensive consultations with key stakeholders, aimed at safeguarding lives and property in light of the impending weather threats.
He urged residents and visitors to comply fully with the safety measures, emphasising the county’s collaboration with emergency and maritime agencies to manage the situation and safeguard lives and property.
“Residents and visitors are urged to comply fully with these safety measures. The County Government is working in close coordination with emergency and maritime agencies to manage the evolving situation and safeguard lives and property,” he said.
The governor called on the public to remain vigilant and prioritise safety during this period of adverse weather conditions.
He reiterated that these steps were necessary to mitigate risks posed by the forecasted strong winds and large waves along the coast.
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