Sierra Leone: Flooding displaces thousands in Freetown as of August 8

Event

As of Thursday, August 8, heavy rain and consequent floods and landslides in Sierra Leone have displaced some 8000 people and left at least six dead since the rainfall began on August 2. Local media outlets report that flooding has been most severe in Western area, including Freetown, where six people have died and another 5000 displaced. The Southern and Eastern provinces have also been affected by floods, where thousands more have been displaced. 

Emergency efforts are ongoing as of August 8 and are expected to continue in the coming days. Significant transportation and power disruptions are also to be anticipated in affected areas. 

Advice

Individuals in Sierra Leone are advised to keep abreast of local weather forecasts, anticipate flooding and landslides along with transportation, business, electricity, and telecommunications disruptions, and adhere to any instructions issued by local authorities. Be advised 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 food discarded.