Freetown, October 29, 2024 – Torrential rains hit Freetown on Thursday, October 24, leading to widespread flooding and significant destruction in multiple communities. The National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA), under the guidance of Director of Regional Coordination Paul Thomas, quickly mobilized to assess the situation and extend relief to the affected areas.
One of the hardest-hit locations was Texaco Old Road, where floodwaters infiltrated the SDA Church and school compound, breaching a 15-year-old perimeter fence and submerging classrooms and the church auditorium. School sessions for primary and secondary students were halted and only resumed once the water receded and the spaces were cleared and dried.
James Kanu, the school’s principal and head deacon, noted that the flooding was exacerbated by a newly constructed building obstructing a culvert, which disrupted water flow. Thankfully, there were no reported injuries.
The NDMA has committed to collaborating with relevant authorities to resolve the issue and prevent future flooding.
The NDMA team also surveyed Lower Kuntolor, where uncontrolled hillside runoff destroyed eight mud-brick homes, displacing over 150 people from 30 households. Field officers registered the affected families and, with support from the local councillor and community members, secured temporary housing.
Prince Tommy Williams of the Life Line Nehemiah Project generously offered one of his organization’s facilities to shelter displaced individuals.
At Upper Melon Street, Old Road, floodwaters triggered another tragedy when a collapsing perimeter fence swept away two men, aged 21 and 40, who were outside fetching water. The 40-year-old man, Alhaji M. Bah, was later found deceased, while the search for the 21-year-old, Samba Conteh, continues despite exhaustive efforts by community volunteers and the use of an excavator to clear debris. Family members have reported the incident to police, and further search measures are planned.
The NDMA has reiterated its commitment to flood prevention in the Western Area, urging residents to keep waterways clear and to report emergencies by calling 1199, a toll-free number available on all networks.