Cyclone Hidaya: Coast To Be Hit With Heavy Rains, Large Waves And Strong Winds

Kenyan Coast is likely to be hit with Cyclone Hidaya, a phenomenon characterized by heavy rainfalls, strong winds and large waves that could disrupt the marine environment in the Indian Ocian.

A cabinet meeting chaired today by President William Ruto announced the government’s readiness for likely mudslides and landslides in the coastal region.

“…the coastal region is likely to experience Cyclone Hidaya, which will result in heavy rainfall, large waves and strong winds that could affect marine activities in the Indian Ocean,” the cabinet’s dispatch reads.

On the adverse effects of weather conditions on schools, Cabinet was informed that infrastructure, including classrooms, dormitories, halls, toilets, latrines fences and perimeter walls, has been destroyed.

Some schools have been flooded, while others are being occupied by people who have been displaced by mudslides, landslides and floods.

To repair and rehabilitate destroyed school infrastructure, the Cabinet directed that the Ministry of Education works with the National Government Constituency Development.

The Cabinet endorsed the Ministry of Education’s decision to postpone the reopening of schools by one week. Schools will now reopen on May 6.

The ministry was directed to work with the National Government Constituency Development Fund so that funding is made available for repair and rehabilitation of destroyed infrastructure.

The Cabinet also approved the expansion of the Manda Bay Airfield runway in Lamu. This project will enhance Kenya Defence Forces’ capability to defend the country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Tanzania Meteorological Authority also reported that Cyclone Hidaya was observed approximately 506 kilometers east of the coastal region of Mtwara region.