Somalia: Disruptions due to flooding ongoing in Beledweyne District, Hiran Region, as of May 10

Event

Disruptions due to flooding are ongoing across parts of Beledweyne District in Hiran Region as of May 10. Heavy rainfall in catchment areas of the Shablle River in recent days has caused the river to burst its banks in the vicinity of Beledweyne. Authorities have reported around 10,000 families have been displaced by the flooding in the affected area. Many roads and bridges in Beledweyne District have been made impassable by floodwaters,

Drier conditions are forecast in the affected area over the coming days and river levels in the Shabelle River have likely peaked; however, disruptions in flood-affected areas will probably continue for some time as response and recovery operations continue.

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 heavy rainfall has saturated the soil.

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.