Sierra Leone: Authorities warn against swimming in Freetown area /update 4

Event

The General Director of the Sierra Leone Tourism Office issued a statement on Tuesday, August 22, warning all those present in and around the capital city of Freetown to avoid swimming in surrounding areas due to the presence of dangerous debris, mud, and contaminants in the water in the wake of the major mudslide that hit the city overnight on August 13-14. Cleanup operations have been ongoing, and officials reported the recovery of 60 dead bodies from the waters around the city since last week.

Almost 500 people have been reported dead after heavy rains led to flooding and a major mudslide on  Sugar Loaf mountain in the Regent area of the capital, and the number of confirmed deaths is expected to rise as recovery efforts continue. At least 100 people are reportedly still missing as of August 22.

Context

Sierra Leone's rainy season runs between May and November, during which time heavy precipitation regularly leads to widespread damages and localized flooding. Initial reports indicate that the landslide may have been caused by an increase in unregulated housing on hilltop areas. 

Advice

Individuals present in areas affected by heavy rains are advised to follow all instructions issued by local authorities and to monitor the situation. Remember that driving or walking through running water can be dangerous - 15 cm (6 in) of running water is enough to knock over an adult - and that floodwater may contain wastewater or chemical products; all items having come into contact with the water should be disinfected and all foodstuffs discarded