Somalia: Flooding kills at least four in Puntland /update 2

Event

Severe flooding was reported in northern Somalia on Friday, May 18, and Saturday, May 19, after Tropical Cyclone Sagar moved along the coast. According to local reports, at least four people have been killed and hundreds displaced by the flooding. Authorities said three people died in the Berbera region and over 200 were forced to evacuate the Tawakal Internally Displaced People’s (IDP) camp. Another 900 IDPs had to evacuate their camp in Berbera. Flash flooding was also reported in the Bari region.

Tropical Cyclone Sagar is expected to make landfall in Somaliland on Saturday. The UN warned that around 1.3 million people may be impacted by the storm. Additional heavy rain, strong winds, and flooding are expected across northern Somalia in the coming days as the storm moves towards Djibouti.

Context

Rains from the Gu rainy season (which runs from March to May) caused significant flooding throughout Somalia in April. Even a modest amount of rainfall in the area is likely to cause flash floods and large amounts could significantly impact the region.

Advice

Individuals present in affected areas are advised to keep abreast of the situation, to avoid areas directly hit by flooding, and to adhere to any orders issued by the local authorities or their home governments. Remember that driving or walking through running water can be dangerous and that floodwater may contain wastewater or chemical products; all items having come into contact with the water should be disinfected and all foodstuffs discarded. Be aware that the risk of contracting water- and mosquito-borne diseases tends to rise after periods of heavy rains; take measures to protect yourself from mosquito bites (use insect repellent, mosquito nets, etc.) and only consume purified water.