By: Fayia Jr. Moseray
Sierra Leone’s National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA) has issued a strong public warning, urging citizens across the country to remain vigilant and safe as intense rainfall is expected in the coming days.
According to the NDMA, forecasts from the Sierra Leone Meteorological Agency (SLMet) and regional weather reports indicate a heightened risk of flash floods, mudslides, and hazardous road conditions particularly in low-lying and densely populated urban areas such as Freetown, Bo, Kenema, and Makeni.
In its press release, the Agency emphasized the importance of public caution, especially in disaster-prone areas. Citizens are strongly advised to avoid flood-prone zones, particularly at night when low visibility and difficult evacuation conditions pose increased risks.
“We are calling on the public to remain cautious, avoid unnecessary travel during heavy downpours, and report any signs of flooding, erosion, or structural damage to local authorities,” the statement read.
The NDMA also issued specific warnings to residents living in slum communities, informal settlements, and areas near rivers or hillsides, urging them to be on high alert. The Agency stated that its Emergency Response Team, in collaboration with other institutions including the Office of National Security (ONS), Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF), Freetown City Council (FCC), SLMet, and community disaster volunteers, is fully activated and on standby.
This warning comes during an already severe rainy season that has led to flooding in parts of Freetown, displacing families and damaging infrastructure. The situation has reignited concerns over poor drainage systems and unregulated construction in vulnerable areas.
The NDMA further encouraged local councils and community leaders to play proactive roles by activating local disaster response teams, launching public sensitization campaigns, and engaging in evacuation planning as a preventive measure.
Meanwhile, various ministries, agencies, and city councils have echoed the warning, urging citizens to remain vigilant and prepare for a possible increase in landslides, floods, and other climate-related disasters in the days ahead.
The public is also advised to follow official communication channels and avoid relying on unverified social media information, which may spread panic or misinformation.
The NDMA concluded by highlighting the broader context of climate change, noting that Sierra Leone’s growing vulnerability to extreme weather events requires urgent investments in urban planning, environmental protection, and community-based disaster preparedness.