The Kenya Meteorological Department has urged residents along the coast to remain cautious as tropical storm Chenge moves closer to the region.
The system, which has been slowly crossing the Indian Ocean, is expected to bring heavy rains, strong winds, and high waves as it approaches the coasts of Kenya and Tanzania.
As of Sunday, October 26, Chenge was located about 500 kilometres north of Madagascar, moving westward at a speed of 11 kilometres per hour.
The storm currently has winds blowing at around 55 kilometres per hour, with gusts reaching up to 75 kilometres per hour. Although it has begun to weaken, it still holds enough energy to disrupt normal weather patterns and cause heavy rainfall along the Kenyan coast.
The Kenya Met Department has warned residents in Mombasa, Kilifi, Lamu, and Malindi to prepare for strong winds exceeding 25 knots and possible flooding. Low-lying areas and poorly drained roads could be the most affected if the rains continue over several days.
The department noted that the storm is expected to lose strength and dissipate near the Kenya–Tanzania coast by Tuesday, but the effects could linger through cloudy skies and scattered showers later in the week.
Fishermen and small boat operators have also been advised to stay off the water until conditions improve, as the rough seas could pose serious safety risks. Inland counties such as Kwale, Taita Taveta, and Tana River are also likely to experience heavy rains and localised flooding as a result of the system.
Even as Chenge continues to weaken, Kenyans are being urged to stay alert, follow weather updates, and take precautions to stay safe during the expected heavy rains and strong winds along the coast.
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