Australia’s Drowning Toll Increased by 24 Percent From Last Summer

If drowning deaths continues to occur at the current rate, the number of fatal incidents could reach 107 by the end of this summer.

Beachgoers swim on a hot summer day at Bondi Beach in Sydney, Australia, on Dec. 9, 2023. David Gray/AFP via Getty Images

Australia has seen a 24 percent increase in drowning incidents this summer compared to last year, with fatalities expected to surpass 100 by the end of February, signifying one of the worst summers for holidaygoers and families.

The report follows a tragic event on Jan. 24, where four people lost their lives after being caught in a rip at Forrest Caves Beach, marking the deadliest drowning incident in Victoria in two decades.