Somalia: Authorities responding to fire at market in Tog Wajaale as of late Sept. 16

Event

Authorities are responding to a fire that ignited at a commercial market in Tog Wajaale in the self-declared independent state of Somaliland as of late Sept. 16. The blaze has reportedly impacted hundreds of businesses in the area, and individuals are attempting to salvage goods from shops before they are burned. Authorities did not immediately confirm the cause of the fire or any casualties.

Heightened security and disruptions to transport and business are likely in the area until the blaze is extinguished and firefighters vacate the scene. Business disruptions may persist in the area over the short term even after the fire is extinguished. The blaze may impact cross-border travel from Tog Wajaale to adjacent settlements in Ethiopia's Somali Region. Smoke from the fire may noticeably worsen air quality in the area over the short term.

Advice

Avoid the incident site until authorities extinguish the blaze and vacate the scene. Allow additional time if traveling in the affected area. Consider remaining indoors if smoke is heavy, especially if you suffer from a respiratory illness, such as asthma, or conditions that lead to increased risk from smoke exposure. Eye irritation is possible; flush irritated eyes with copious amounts of clean water.