The Lebanese coastline in Batroun. (Credit: PHB)
The Directorate General of Civil Defense called on people across Lebanon on Sunday to avoid swimming, water sports or boating off Lebanese beaches due to dangers caused by strong sea currents. Weather conditions since Saturday, including winds of 40 km/h according to the main weather information sites, have led to these unsafe offshore conditions.
These "extremely dangerous" conditions increase the risk of drowning and "threaten public safety" the Civil Defense continued, extending its warning to fishermen. It also reminded citizens and residents to respect the public safety instructions issued by the Directorate General, and to call 125 to request help in cases of need.
At least seven people have drowned or gone missing off Lebanon's coasts over the past two weeks.