Iraqi governorates have witnessed an alarming escalation in drowning incidents during the past three weeks, especially after waves of torrential rains hit wide areas of the country, amid warnings of the phenomenon worsening with the onset of summer.
According to unofficial statistics, the death toll approached 30 drowning cases, concentrated in major rivers, primarily the Tigris, Euphrates, and Diyala rivers.
Swimming trainer Osama Al-Atbi explained that the causes of drowning are multiple, including rising water levels and strong currents, in addition to sudden muscle cramps resulting from fatigue and poor physical fitness.
He warned that the summer of 2026 could be critical if preventive measures are not taken, calling on families to monitor children and prevent them from swimming in dangerous areas.
