A rescue operation has been launched in Kilifi and Lamu Counties after three boats capsized in different locations.
In a statement on Saturday, May 24, 2025, the Kenya Red Cross confirmed the incidents, which they revealed occurred early in the morning.
Of the three, two were reported within Kilifi County.
“Three boat capsize incidents were reported this morning — at Vidazini and Mnarani in Kilifi and Mutuni in Lamu,” Kenya Red Cross reported.
In the statement, the Kenya Red Cross detailed that its team braved rough sea conditions to rescue several people who were onboard the vessels when they capsized.
However, they did not immediately reveal the number of those rescued and those still missing.
“Several people have been rescued, with search efforts ongoing despite rough sea conditions. Our teams are on the ground supporting offshore response, medical evaluation and lifeguard services,” the statement explained.
“Deep sea rescue efforts are being supported by the Coast Guard, KMA and Beach Management Units (BMUs), with beach patrol and lifeguard support from the County Governments of Mombasa, Lamu and Kilifi,” it added.
Heavy winds warning
The incidents come hours after the Kenya Meteorological Department warned of strong winds and large waves expected in several regions across the country.
The department predicted powerful southerly winds exceeding 30 knots (15.4 meters per second) will impact Coastal areas, South Eastern lowlands, and North Western regions.
They announced that wind conditions are anticipated to intensify significantly during the weekend, with speeds climbing above 35 knots (18.0 meters per second).
Following the warning, Mombasa County suspended beach activities. In a notice, Mombasa Governor Abdullswamad Sherrif Nassir 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.
“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.
