Somalia: Tropical Storm SIX forecast to hit Puntland and Somaliland December 6

Event

The UN Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO) issued an alert due to the passage of the Tropical Storm SIX, which could cause heavy rain and flooding across Somaliland and Puntland on Friday, December 6. The most potentially affected areas include the Mudug, Nugaal, Bari (Puntland), and Sanaag (Somaliland) regions, where damages to infrastructure are likely. The coast is of particular concern. As of Thursday, December 5, current forecasts for the storm to turn into a cyclone remain low (ten percent).

Disruptions to transportation and business are likely in the affected areas in the coming days and weeks.

Context

Heavy rain and associated flooding which have affected the country since early October have already impacted over half a million individuals as of early December.

Advice

Individuals present in Somalia, notably along the coast are advised to keep abreast of the situation, confirm road conditions before heading out, avoid areas directly hit by flooding, and adhere to any orders issued by the local authorities or their home governments. Remember that driving or walking through running water can be dangerous - 15 cm (6 in) of running water is enough to knock over an adult - 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 rainfall.