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UN warns of impending flood threat to 770,000 in Somalia

A man carries a sack through floodwater in Beledweyne, central Somalia, on May 14, 2023. (Photo: Hassan Ali Eli/AFP)

By Hanifa Adan | 22 Apr 2024

Although no flash or riverine flooding has been reported, the heavy rainfall has already had severe consequences.

A United Nations office issued a warning on Sunday about the potential impact of the seasonal Gu rains, which have begun in most regions of Somalia.

These rains are expected to affect up to 770,000 people in 22 districts, with the looming threat of floods, the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) said.

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Although no flash or riverine flooding has been reported, the heavy rainfall has already had severe consequences.

The humanitarian situation has already seen a toll, with four fatalities reported and about 100 shelters housing displaced persons destroyed.

Additionally, at least 134 families, roughly 804 individuals, have been either directly affected or displaced due to the adverse weather.

In its latest humanitarian update, the organisation stated, "Humanitarian workers have developed a plan to mitigate the expected impact of the Gu rains, but need urgent resources to ensure a timely response."

The UN agency reported that it has 51 boats on standby to evacuate people and provide assistance in priority areas along the Shabelle and Juba rivers, where the risk of flooding is particularly high.

OCHA also announced that assistance has been prepared for regions that might become isolated due to the floods. Additionally, plans are in place to aid people who could find themselves stranded and 67 evacuation sites have been identified in flood-prone areas.

"In various hotspots, partners are conducting gap analysis and engaging in early warning and community awareness activities, especially in evacuation sites," OCHA said.

However, there is relief for pastoralists and agro-pastoralists throughout the country who rely heavily on seasonal rains.

"Local sources report that the rain is sufficient to refill water pans and regenerate pastures, potentially leading to increased food production in the region," the UN office said.

Heavy rains from October to December in late 2023 resulted in severe flooding across Somalia, displacing an estimated 1.6 million people from their homes.

OCHA highlighted the ongoing crisis last month, noting that the persistent heavy rainfall is not only a direct threat to safety but also likely to trigger cholera outbreaks in regions that have been free of the disease for years.

OCHA said it has joined with partners and Somali health authorities to intensify response and preparedness activities, guided by a six-month action plan requiring $5.9 million for implementation.