In 2010, the number of people who drowned was 12. The number has increased over the years reaching 36 in 2014 (end of August), up by 24 deaths or 200%. The presence of Syrian refugees and their lack of knowledge about dangers in water are thought to be a significant factor in the increase of drownings. Table 1 illustrates the number of people who drowned in Lebanese waters between 2010 and 2014.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A majority of victims, totaling 62, were Lebanese. They accounted for 46% of the total drowned, followed by Syrians at 56 drownings or 42%. Seven Palestinians were reported to have drowned in addition to two Egyptian nationals, a Jordanian, a Polish and six other victims of unidentified nationalities. 

 

 Males made up the majority of the victims with 128 deaths against seven females. 

 

Drowning incidents took place at different locations along the Lebanese coast.  The majority of deaths, 28, were recorded in the area between Antelias and Byblos followed by 25 deaths in the area between Tyre and Naqoura. Table 2 illustrates the distribution of drowning incidents along the Lebanese coast.