
Since mid-April, flash floods in Somalia have devastated communities, impacting over 84,000 people, according to the United Nations. The catastrophic weather, exacerbated by climate change, has claimed at least 17 lives.
Heavy seasonal rains have caused widespread destruction across several regions, including Jubaland, Hirshabelle, South West, Galmudug, Puntland, and Banadir, the latter of which houses the capital, Mogadishu. Over 8,100 people have been displaced, many losing their homes and basic necessities.
Critical infrastructure has been severely damaged. Water points have been submerged, and nearly 200 latrines have been destroyed, worsening the already dire humanitarian situation. The lack of access to clean water and sanitation is further threatening public health.
In Banadir, southeastern areas were hit particularly hard, with torrential rains leaving nine dead and affecting 24,600 individuals. The rains have had a disproportionate impact on internally displaced persons, who are now facing even more severe challenges.
Meteorologists warn that the situation could worsen, with more rainfall expected across southern and central Somalia in the coming days. This follows the devastating floods of 2023, which left over 100 dead and displaced more than a million people.
As Somalia braces for further adverse weather, the UN has called for urgent humanitarian support to address the escalating crisis.