Flash floods hit Somalia

Flash flooding in Somalia has caused widespread devastation.

The city of Beledweyne which is close to the Ethiopian border in Somalia, is experiencing severe flooding due to heavy rain. Nearly 10,500 people have been forced to flee their homes as a result and are in desperate need of humanitarian aid.

The flooding has submerged farms and businesses, and many have lost their livelihoods as a result. Roads and canal bridges have also been destroyed amid the flooding. With water levels increasing in the Shaballe River, there are fears that the situation will worsen in the coming days and weeks.

There are also worries that roads may become blocked as the flooding worsens, which could make it more difficult to support affected communities.

Flash floods in the Bardhere District in the Gedo Region

This is the second time that Somalia has experienced flooding this spring. In March 2023, the Bardhere District in the Gedo Region was also hit by flash floods. 14 people lost their lives amid the flooding, and 8,000 people have been forced to flee their homes. 

The flooding has destroyed property, farms and buildings. Those who have lost their homes are now living in makeshift shelters on higher ground, which are severely overcrowded and lack water and sanitation facilities. 

Communities in the region are already struggling amid the prolonged drought, where almost 90% of the country’s districts have been struck and approximately 4.3 million people are in desperate need of immediate aid.

With fears of the situation becoming even worse and also a high-risk of water-born disease outbreaks, the need to emergency support is crucial.

Islamic Relief are already supporting affected communities 

Islamic Relief is working with local authorities to establish affected families’ main needs, and planning the most effective way to support them. 

Islamic Relief already have a presence in the Gedo region and are supporting families affected by the droughts. 

Support will include providing cash vouchers, shelters and clean water supplies to those affected by the flash floods.