Tropical Storm 'Chenge' Brings Heavy Rains and Strong Winds to Kenya's Coast
NAIROBI, Kenya, Oct 26 — A weakening tropical storm named Chenge is expected to bring heavy rains and strong winds along Kenya's coast in the coming days, the Kenya Meteorological Department (KMD) has warned. Chenge, currently classified as a residual depression, is moving westward at about 11 kilometers per hour, roughly 500 kilometers north of Madagascar, with sustained winds of 55 km/h, gusts reaching up to 75 km/h, and central pressure near 1,000 hPa.
The KMD has issued a statement on Sunday, monitoring tropical weather systems over the southwest Indian Ocean. Chenge will dissipate near the Tanzania-Kenya coast by Tuesday, but not before bringing heavy rainfall and strong winds to several regions.
The weather agency has advised that heavy rains are likely over several parts of the country, with strong coastal winds exceeding 25 knots. Counties along the coast, including Mombasa, Kilifi, Kwale, and Lamu, are forecast to experience heavy rainfall, strong winds, and rough sea conditions.
Fishermen and small boat operators are urged to exercise caution or avoid venturing into the ocean until the storm weakens completely. In addition, inland areas, especially low-lying and poorly drained zones, could experience flash floods due to sustained rainfall and runoff from higher ground.
The KMD has revised its heavy rains advisory to above 50mm, with flooding and landslide risks. Residents are advised to remain alert, follow official weather updates, and avoid unnecessary travel or outdoor activities during periods of heavy rainfall. Local authorities and disaster management agencies are urged to stay vigilant and ready to respond to possible emergencies.
While Chenge continues to weaken, meteorologists caution that its remnants may still trigger localized storms and heavy downpours, potentially disrupting transport, electricity, and communication infrastructure along the coast and neighboring counties. This warning comes as East Africa enters its short rains season, which typically runs from October to December and often coincides with weather systems developing over the Indian Ocean that can intensify rainfall and cause flooding.
