The Kenya Meteorological Department on Saturday, May 3, issued an update on the looming tropical Cyclone Hidaya set to hit Kenya.
In a statement, the department explained that the storm had significantly weakened after making landfall on Mafia Island in Tanzania on Saturday morning.
The department however explained that despite the change, other depressions were developing but the department was monitoring.
"Heavy rainfall is expected offshore along the Kenyan coast from Sunday, May 5, intensifying and propagating inland and along the coast on Monday, May 6, to Tuesday, May 7, 2024," read part of the statement.
According to Kenya Met, the effects of the cyclone are already being left offshore with strong winds exceeding 40 knots (20.6 m/s) and large waves surpassing two meters.
It emphasised that further updates on the weather as necessary in the coming days.
Following this update, all residents especially those in the coastal regions and individuals involved in marine activities in the Indian Ocean were encouraged to take maximum precautions.
Additionally, they were urged to stay informed by regularly checking the latest weather forecasts and updates from the department.
Kenya Meteorological Department also urged the locals to seek guidance from experts in relevant fields to mitigate potential impact. Kenyans were also advised to stay safe and prepared for any changes in the weather.
Besides the Coastal region, the department warned of heavy rainfall in certain areas of Mandera urging the locals to stay prepared and safe.
"Isolated Heavy (20-50mm) to Very Heavy (>50mm) downpours are likely in some parts of the Central, Nairobi, Southeastern, Rift Valley, and Coastal regions," Kenya Met added.
Light to moderate rainfall is also expected across various parts of the country in the coming weeks.
