MOGADISHU — The Somali government has warned of possible flooding, flash floods and worsening drought conditions, urging government institutions, humanitarian organisations, businesses and the public to strengthen preparations for potential emergencies.
Minister of Interior, Federal Affairs and Reconciliation Ali Yusuf Ali Hoosh said authorities were monitoring weather forecasts indicating the possibility of difficult conditions in parts of the country. He urged communities, particularly those living in flood-prone areas, to remain alert and take precautionary measures.
The warning comes as Somalia prepares for potentially challenging weather conditions associated with the anticipated Super El Niño phenomenon. Authorities and humanitarian organisations are concerned that heavy seasonal rainfall could increase the risk of flooding, displacement, infrastructure damage and disruption to humanitarian operations.
Somalia remains highly vulnerable to climate-related disasters. Many communities are still recovering from prolonged drought, conflict and displacement, while repeated cycles of drought followed by heavy rainfall have placed additional pressure on water supplies, food security, health services and other public infrastructure.
SoDMA to Coordinate Emergency Response
Minister Hoosh praised the Somali Disaster Management Agency (SoDMA) for its preparations and called for stronger coordination between government institutions and humanitarian organisations.
He said emergency responses should be organised through a unified system rather than through separate and uncoordinated efforts by individual agencies.
SoDMA, he said, should play a central role in coordinating emergency operations, including the mobilisation of resources, dissemination of early-warning information, distribution of relief supplies and assistance to communities affected by floods or other disasters.
The government and humanitarian partners have been strengthening contingency plans in anticipation of possible extreme weather. Authorities have also stressed the importance of early warning systems and timely information to help communities prepare before conditions deteriorate.
Threats to Food Security and Livelihoods
Potential flooding could damage agricultural land, roads, homes, water infrastructure and livestock, while prolonged dry conditions could increase water shortages and worsen food insecurity.
The risks are particularly significant for rural communities whose livelihoods depend heavily on agriculture and livestock. Damage to crops, pasture and water sources could further increase displacement and humanitarian needs.
Somalia has experienced the consequences of extreme weather in recent years. Severe flooding in 2023, following a prolonged drought, affected large parts of the country, displaced hundreds of thousands of people and caused significant damage to homes, farmland and livelihoods.
Humanitarian operations are also facing financial and logistical challenges, increasing the importance of early preparedness and efficient coordination of available resources.
Government Appeals for Support
Minister Hoosh appealed to Somali businesspeople, wealthy individuals, humanitarian organisations, international partners and countries supporting Somalia to contribute to disaster preparedness and emergency relief efforts.
He also welcomed the establishment of a committee overseeing an emergency response fund, saying the initiative could help strengthen the country’s capacity to respond if the situation worsens.
Hoosh praised President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre for supporting disaster preparedness efforts and encouraged Somali citizens to contribute to community-based assistance and relief activities.
Authorities Urge Vigilance
Regional climate forecasts indicate that weather conditions across the Horn of Africa could vary considerably, with some areas experiencing rainfall while others face elevated temperatures and continued dry conditions.
Authorities are therefore urging communities to follow official weather and emergency alerts, avoid flood-prone areas where necessary and cooperate with government agencies and humanitarian organisations if emergency measures, including evacuations, become necessary.
The government says early warning, coordinated response, adequate resources and public cooperation will be essential to protecting lives, livelihoods and infrastructure if Somalia’s weather conditions deteriorate.
With the country facing risks from both drought and flooding, officials are calling for preparedness measures to be taken before emergencies occur rather than waiting until communities are already affected.
