Severe floods in Somalia affect 2 million, displace 746 000 and destroy 4 700 houses

Severe floods in Somalia affect 2 million, displace 746 000 and destroy 4 700 houses

The ongoing Deyr rainy season continues to unleash devastating floods across Somalia and the wider Horn of Africa, wreaking havoc on an unprecedented scale. The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (UN OCHA) confirms that as of November 29, the crisis has affected 2 million people, displaced 746 000, and caused 96 deaths. The most severely impacted areas are in Somalia’s south-west, especially the Bay, Gedo, and Middle Juba regions.

‘Once-in-a-century’ flood disaster strikes Somalia: Over 450 000 displaced, 1.2 million affected and 32 fatalities reported

‘Once-in-a-century’ flood disaster strikes Somalia: Over 450 000 displaced, 1.2 million affected and 32 fatalities reported

In a dramatic shift from drought to deluge, Somalia is experiencing unprecedented flooding described as a ‘once-in-a-century’ event by the UN. This natural disaster, exacerbated by El Niño and the Indian Ocean Dipole, has put approximately 1.6 million people at risk, with over 1.24 million already affected. The nation faces a severe humanitarian challenge as it contends with the aftermath of these extreme weather conditions.

Flash floods in central Somalia leave 22 dead and over 450 000 affected

Flash floods in central Somalia leave 22 dead and over 450 000 affected

Since the onset of the Gu Rainy Season (April through June) in 2023, flash floods have devastated central Somalia, resulting in 22 fatalities and leading to a mass evacuation of tens of thousands from their homes. The regions most impacted by these floods include the Belet Weyne District in Hirshabelle State and the Baardheere District in Jubaland State.

Jubaland state of Somalia hit by the worst floods in a decade

Jubaland state of Somalia hit by the worst floods in a decade

At least 20 people have died in flash floods that hit Somalia’s Bardhere district last week, causing massive damage to infrastructure and forcing thousands to seek safer ground. The district is located on the Jubba River in the Jubaland State of Somalia. The rains mark the early start of the country’s rainy season, providing relief to areas of the country experiencing the worst drought in four decades.

Worst drought in 40 years affecting Kenya, Ethiopia and Somalia

Worst drought in 40 years affecting Kenya, Ethiopia and Somalia

The Horn of Africa is experiencing its fourth consecutive failed rain season and the worst drought since 1981. At least 15 million people across Kenya, Ethiopia and Somalia are already affected and there are fears this number could jump to 20 million.

Somalia bracing for record levels of displacement

Somalia bracing for record levels of displacement

Somalia is preparing for record levels of displacement this year as severe drought grips parts of the country, leaving tens of thousands of people without access to water and livelihood. In 2020, the main driver for displacement was flooding. In 2019, Somalia saw…