Mombasa Reopens Public Beaches After Weather Advisory Lifted

FOLLOW US ON

Mombasa Reopens Public Beaches After Weather Advisory Lifted

MOMBASA, Kenya – May 27, 2025 – Public beaches in Mombasa have been officially reopened for recreational use after a temporary closure due to adverse weather conditions. The announcement was made by Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Sherrif Nassir on Tuesday, May 27, following a positive update from meteorological authorities.

Governor Nassir stated that the decision to lift the suspension was informed by an updated review from the County Director of Meteorological Services, indicating a “significant reduction in wind speeds to a maximum of 16 knots and a gradual decline in wave heights.”

“In view of the improved weather conditions, I hereby lift the earlier restrictions; public beaches are now open for public access and recreational use,” the Governor said in an official press release.

The county had ordered the closure of all public beaches on Friday, May 23, in response to a weather advisory from the Kenya Meteorological Department. The advisory had warned of strong southerly winds, exceeding 35 knots (18.0 m/s), and high wave activity along the Kenyan coastline over the weekend. These conditions were expected to pose a significant risk to public safety, particularly in open coastal areas.

By Monday, May 26, wind and wave conditions had subsided to safer levels—25 knots (12.9 m/s) and below 2 metres in wave height, respectively—prompting a reassessment by local authorities. The decision to reopen the beaches followed consultations between the county government and meteorological experts.

In addition to lifting the beach restrictions, Governor Nassir also authorized the resumption of construction activities across the county, which had been halted due to safety concerns related to the adverse weather.

Despite the reopening, county officials continue to urge caution. Governor Nassir specifically warned deep-sea marine operators to remain vigilant, noting that “moderate swells may still be experienced offshore.”

Mombasa boasts several popular public beaches, including Jomo Kenyatta (Pirates), Nyali, Bamburi, Shanzu, Shelly, and Tiwi, as well as additional sites like Maasai, English Point, Kanamai, and Kikambala along the North Coast.

The county government, in collaboration with the Meteorological Department and the disaster preparedness team, will maintain continuous monitoring of coastal conditions to ensure public safety.

Further advisories will be issued should there be any significant changes in weather patterns.

Mombasa Reopens Public Beaches After Weather Advisory Lifted