Major Bridge Collapse in Bardhere Amidst Widespread Flooding in South-Western Somalia

In the wake of relentless heavy rain sweeping across Somalia, a crucial bridge in the south-western town of Bardhere has succumbed to the rising floodwaters, severing a vital connection for the movement of people in the Gedo region as reported by the state-owned National News Agency.

The bridge played a pivotal role in facilitating travel between towns and villages in the Gedo region, and its collapse has prompted concerns among locals who fear isolation from their neighboring areas. In response to the emergency, authorities have deployed two rescue boats to assist those affected.

Gedo, a region already grappling with the aftermath of devastating floods, finds itself further strained as the collapse compounds the challenges faced by its residents. Tragically, the floods have claimed the lives of over a dozen individuals nationwide, with thousands either displaced or cut off from assistance.

Somalia, emerging from one of the most severe droughts in its recent history, is grappling with heavier-than-normal rains, exacerbating the already precarious situation. The downpours have not only impacted Somalia but have also wreaked havoc in various parts of East Africa over the past few weeks.