Iraqi governorates have witnessed an alarming rise in drowning cases 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, including about 12 cases in Nineveh Governorate, while incidents were concentrated in major rivers, primarily the Tigris, Euphrates, and Diyala rivers.

Swimming trainer Osama Al-Atbi explained that the causes of drowning are not only related to rising water levels and strong currents, but also include other factors such as sudden muscle cramps resulting from fatigue and poor physical fitness, which can affect even good swimmers.

He warned that the summer of 2026 could be dangerous if preventive measures are not taken, especially by families in monitoring children and preventing them from swimming in dangerous areas.