Somalia: Disruptions due to flooding ongoing nationwide as of March 26 /update 1

Event

Disruptions due to flooding are ongoing across Somalia as of March 26. Heavy rainfall since March 12 resulted in flooding across the country. Flash flooding in Bardhere District, Gedo Region, Jubaland State, resulted in 14 fatalities and affected thousands of other people. The floodwaters impacted two Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) sites, affecting more than 8,000 IDPs, and damaged or destroyed several structures. Authorities have warned that the heavy rainfall has increased the risk of the Juba River flooding, especially in Bardhere, Bu'aale, Jilib, and Saakow districts.

In Galmudug State, most low-lying areas in Cadaado Town, including Karaama and Waaberi neighborhoods, and parts of Dhuusamarreeb Town are flooded. Authorities are evacuating the affected people to higher ground. The main road connecting the two towns is damaged. Reports indicate power outages and business and school closures in the towns. Flooding also impacted seven IDP sites in southern Galkayo City.

Flash floods in Jalam town, Burtinle District, Nugaal Region, Puntland State, have displaced hundreds of people and damaged properties and infrastructure. Flooding also damaged several shelters in five IPD sites in South West State and displaced more than 2,750 people in Baidoa Town.

Disruptions in flood-affected areas will probably continue for some time as response and recovery operations continue. Further rainfall and thunderstorms are likely throughout the rainy season through June, and heavy downpours associated with the storms could trigger additional flooding and hamper ongoing relief efforts.

Hazardous Conditions
Further sustained heavy rainfall could trigger additional flooding in low-lying communities near rivers, streams, and creeks. Urban flooding is also possible in developed areas with easily overwhelmed stormwater drainage systems. Sites located downstream from large reservoirs or rivers may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall. Landslides are possible in hilly or mountainous areas, especially where the soil has become saturated by heavy rainfall.

Authorities could issue mandatory evacuation orders for flood-prone communities over the coming days. Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are possible where significant flooding or landslides impact utility networks.

Transport
Floodwaters and debris flows may render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around affected areas. Ponding on road surfaces could cause hazardous driving conditions on regional highways. Authorities could temporarily close some low-lying routes that become inundated by floodwaters. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are likely in areas that see heavy rainfall and potential track inundation.

Localized business disruptions may occur in low-lying areas; some businesses might not operate at full capacity because of flood damage to facilities, possible evacuations, and some employees' inability to reach work sites.

Advice

Monitor local media for weather updates and related advisories. Confirm all transport reservations and business appointments before travel. Make allowances for localized travel delays and potential supply chain disruptions where flooding has been forecast. Do not drive on flooded roads. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.