The National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA) has issued a public advisory warning of heavy rainfall expected over the next three days, from July 30 to August 2, 2025. The alert follows projections from the African Union’s Climate Centre (ACMAD/OCHA) and aligns with forecasts released by the Sierra Leone Meteorological Agency (SLMet).
According to the agencies, Sierra Leone and other West African countries are set to experience deep convective cloud activity, resulting in cumulative rainfall levels estimated between 100mm and 150mm over a five-day period. The anticipated downpour poses a significant risk of flash floods, landslides and infrastructure damage, particularly in urban areas with poor drainage systems and flood-prone communities.
Low-lying coastal areas, hillside settlements, erosion-prone slopes and neighborhoods with inadequate waste management or blocked waterways are expected to be among the most vulnerable.
In response to the potential hazards, the NDMA has urged the public to adopt preventive and safety measures, including:
Relocation from high-risk locations: Residents living in floodplains, near riverbanks or on unstable slopes are advised to consider temporary relocation during the rainfall window.
Clearing gutters and waterways: Communities are encouraged to ensure proper drainage to reduce localized flooding.
Reporting emergencies: The NDMA’s toll-free line 1199 remains available on all networks for prompt reporting of incidents.
The NDMA emphasized that this advisory serves as an early warning and confirmed ongoing coordination with the Sierra Leone Meteorological Agency and the African Union to monitor the situation closely and respond swiftly to any emergencies.
The agency has called on the public to remain vigilant and prioritize safety during the forecasted rainfall period.
