High-Risk Areas Urged to Brace for Severe Weather with SODMA Alerts

In a recent announcement, the Somali government warned of potential disturbances in multiple regions over the next ten days. The Somali National Disaster Management Agency (SODMA) raised concerns about heavy rains leading to severe flooding. From May 7th to May 16th, 2024, regions like Hiiraan, Gedo, Jubba, and Middle Shabelle are expected to experience significant rainfall, posing risks to both people and animals. Specific areas like Dolow, Luuq, Bu’ale, Jilib, Beledweyne, Bula-burde, Jalalaqsi, Mahaday, Jowhar, and Balcad are at high risk of flooding from rivers and streams. Residents in these vulnerable locations are advised to remain vigilant and prepare for the upcoming challenges. This warning is the third issued by SODMA in response to the escalating water levels in the Jubba and Shabelle rivers, aggravated by continuous heavy rainfall. According to the latest report from the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), more than 163,400 individuals have already been affected by the ongoing Gu rains, with at least 37,120 displaced in Hirshabelle, Jubaland, and South West states.