Heavy rains claim three lives in Somalia's Puntland as region swings from drought to floods
This latest disaster highlights Somalia's vulnerability to climate extremes, where cycles of drought and flooding regularly compound the challenges of a nation recovering from decades of conflict.
Two children and a woman were swept away by flash floods in Puntland State on Sunday, as torrential rains continue to pound the region just weeks after it endured severe drought conditions.
The tragic incident occurred in Timirshe town, Iskushuban District, Bari region - near an area where Puntland forces are currently engaged in operations against ISIS militants. Deputy District Commissioner Said Abshir confirmed the deaths and warned of further damage as the downpour persists.
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"The heavy rains began at 4 am and have caused widespread destruction. In the Carraweyn area, flash floods swept away three victims - a woman and two boys. Numerous homes have been destroyed, and the town has suffered significant flood damage," Said told reporters on Sunday evening.
Meanwhile, in Qardho, pre-emptive flood mitigation measures have largely protected the town, though rising waters have now bisected the settlement. District Commissioner Abdi Said appealed for support to construct a bridge to restore connectivity.
"We thank Allah for the rains after such prolonged drought. Our flood prevention canal has spared Qardho from the worst impacts, though the waterway has now divided the town in two. Our immediate need is for a bridge to reconnect the community," Said stated.
The extreme weather marks a dramatic reversal for Puntland, where authorities had, until recently, organised public prayers for rain during the prolonged drought. With many areas now receiving substantial rainfall, the Ministry of Justice, Constitution, and Religious Affairs has called for thanksgiving prayers instead.
This latest disaster highlights Somalia's vulnerability to climate extremes, where cycles of drought and flooding regularly compound the challenges of a nation recovering from decades of conflict. Limited resources continue to hamper disaster response efforts across the country's fragile state infrastructure.
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