Drowning incidents claimed the lives of 221 individuals in 2024, highlighting ongoing safety concerns.

In 2024, drowning incidents resulted in the tragic loss of 221 individuals across various age groups in liberated areas and provinces. Additionally, emergency responders successfully rescued 79 others from potentially fatal situations.

Overview of Drowning Statistics

Annual reports from law enforcement agencies, including the police, civil defense, and coast guard, reveal that 221 people lost their lives last year. Among the deceased, 93 were African migrants who drowned in seas, floodwaters, swamps, barriers, pools, and beaches. These incidents occurred in multiple provinces due to personal negligence, family oversight, and risky behavior, such as swimming without adequate skills or experience. Despite repeated warnings from the coast guard regarding the dangers of swimming in water bodies—especially during rough seas and adverse weather conditions—many individuals ignored these alerts. Civil defense authorities also issued guidelines and warnings about the risks associated with children playing in flood-prone areas or individuals entering hazardous waters alone.

Provincial Breakdown of Drowning Incidents

Reports indicate that drowning incidents varied significantly across liberated provinces. Marib province recorded the highest number of incidents, with 38 cases leading to 35 fatalities, while five individuals were rescued. Following Marib, Hadhramaut reported 18 drowning incidents. Shabwa province ranked third, experiencing 13 incidents that claimed 93 lives, including 49 African migrants who drowned off the province’s coast, with 71 others rescued. Both Al-Mahra and Al-Dhale’e provinces reported 13 incidents each. The temporary capital, Aden, recorded 10 drowning cases, while Al-Hudaydah province experienced seven incidents. Taiz province also reported seven incidents, including a tragic event where 45 African migrants drowned when their boat capsized due to storms, with only one survivor. Abyan province recorded six incidents, and finally, Hadhramaut valley and desert reported two drowning cases.

Coast Guard Rescue Operations

Throughout the past year, the coast guard successfully conducted 64 search and rescue operations. Notably, they rescued a vessel and its crew of 11 Eritrean nationals who faced a drowning incident at sea.

The alarming number of drowning incidents in 2024 highlights the urgent need for increased awareness and safety measures around water bodies. Authorities continue to stress the importance of adhering to safety guidelines to prevent further tragedies.

 

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