According o Director General of the Sierra Leone Meteorological Agency Mr.Gabriel Kpaka said . The Sierra Leone Meteorological Agency (SLMA) has been involved in providing weather forecasts and advisories, especially during the rainy season, to help mitigate the impact of severe weather conditions and improve disaster preparedness in Sierra Director
Mr.Gabriel Kpaka said The Sierra Leone Meteorological Agency (SLMA) at Tower Hill, Freetown, recorded a cumulative rainfall of 106mm between 9am and noon today. This significant downpour has heightened the risk of localized flooding in Freetown and several other areas across the country, prompting public advisories for necessary precautions.
In light of the current weather conditions, a joint assessment conducted on July 17, 2024, by the National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA) and SLMA reviewed the severe floods that impacted Waterloo and other communities in the East End of Freetown on July 16-17, 2024.
The assessment team confirmed that contrary to initial reports on social media, there were no fatalities during the floods. The three individuals reported as deceased—two adults and one child—were rescued after falling from a guardrail into the waterway. One adult was briefly unconscious and taken to ADRA Hospital in Waterloo, where she has since regained consciousness and is recovering.
The flooding during this period was attributed to a significant cumulative rainfall of 59.2mm recorded from July 16-17, 2024. The assessment team also noted other flood-related incidents, such as the collapse of a school fence at Lorenzo Secondary School along the Allen Town-Waterloo Highway, which poses risks to nearby properties and residents. In coordination with the Waterloo Police Division, the team instructed the school administration to demolish the fence to ensure community safety.
In Mayemie Allen Town, a slope collapse with boulders was observed, fortunately causing no damage. Residents in the vicinity were advised to evacuate as a precautionary measure. The team also visited other affected sites, including the TESCO Filling Station in Allen Town, Faw-Way, and the Grafton-Regent Highway.
A comprehensive report with recommendations to mitigate future floods is forthcoming. Key factors contributing to the floods in the Western Area were identified as illegal construction on waterways, the deposition of mud in waterways, and waste dumping. The public is strongly advised to refrain from such activities to ensure safety and prevent further flood-related incidents.
According to the SLMA, the country will continue to experience rain in the coming days. Residents in low-lying, flood-prone areas are strongly advised to evacuate to higher, safer locations during this period. The NDMA and SLMA are committed to enhancing early warning systems and disaster preparedness in the country.
Mrs. Susan Kamara, a resident of Allen Town, expressed her concerns: “The rains have been relentless, and the flooding has caused significant distress. We need better infrastructure and community cooperation to prevent such incidents in the future.”
The SLMA and NDMA are working diligently to provide timely updates and support to affected communities. The ongoing efforts to improve disaster response and preparedness are crucial in safeguarding lives and properties during the rainy season. As Sierra Leone continues to face these weather challenges, collective efforts from the government, local authorities, and residents are essential in mitigating the impacts of severe rainfall and flooding.