Editor's Review

A rescue operation is currently underway, being carried out by the Coast Guard, the Kenya Maritime Authority (KMA), and Beach Management Units (BMUs).

Several people are missing after three boats capsized in Kilifi and Lamu counties on Saturday, May 24.

In a statement, the Kenya Red Cross said the incidents took place at Vidazini and Mnarani in Kilifi and Mutuni in Lamu County.

The Kenya Red Cross noted that several people had been rescued, and search efforts were ongoing as of Saturday evening to locate the remaining missing persons.

The rescue operation is being carried out by the Coast Guard, Kenya Maritime Authority (KMA), Beach Management Units (BMUs), beach patrols, and lifeguard teams from Mombasa, Lamu, and Kilifi counties.

“Three boat capsize incidents were reported this morning at Vidazini and Mnarani in Kilifi and Mutuni in Lamu. 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.

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“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,” Kenya Red Cross stated.

File image of a beach in Mombasa County.

The incident comes after the Kenya Meteorological Department warned of large waves exceeding two meters on the Kenyan coast from Friday, May 23 to Sunday, May 25, 2025.

In a weather advisory, the Met Department said the large waves are expected to reduce to below 2.0 meters from Monday, 26th May 2025.

The weatherman also warned of strong southerly winds of more than 30 knots (15.4 m/s) in the Coast, South-eastern lowlands, and Northwestern Kenya regions.

Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir on Friday ordered the closure of all beaches in the coastal county following the warning by the Meteorological Department.

"The Meteorological Department has projected wind speeds of up to 25 knots (12.9 m/s) and wave heights of up to 2.5 meters between 23rd and 25th May 2025, posing serious risks to public safety, marine activities, and coastal infrastructure.”

"Following comprehensive consultations, the following precautionary measures have been adopted. All marine and ocean-related commercial or recreational activities, including fishing and water sports, are suspended until further notice,” Nassir ordered.