Severe Flooding Claims Over 50 Lives in Somalia Amidst Persistent Heavy Rains

Ongoing heavy rainfall since early October in Somalia has resulted in devastating floods, leading to the loss of at least 50 lives and the displacement of over half a million individuals, according to the Somalia Disaster Management Agency (SoDMA). The torrential rains have triggered landslides and flash floods in various regions, causing substantial damage to crops and livestock.

Responding to the crisis, the federal government has mobilized a relief cargo plane to the Bardhere district in southern Somalia, aiming to assist flood victims. The United Nations has issued warnings about the likelihood of widespread displacement, heightened humanitarian needs, and further property destruction.

The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) has reported that heavy rains and flooding have already affected 1.24 million people, with projections indicating an increase in those numbers.

The UN and its collaborating partners estimate that the current rainy season  could impact 1.6 million people, potentially resulting in the destruction of 1.5 million hectares of farmland.