Somalia identifies 29 districts at high risk of Deyr season flooding

Monday September 14, 2026

Mogadishu (HOL) – The Somali Disaster Management Agency (SoDMA) has warned of an increased risk of flooding during the 2026 Deyr rainy season, identifying 29 districts across 14 regions as particularly vulnerable to riverine and flash floods.

The agency said on Saturday the October-December rains are expected to be influenced by Super El Niño conditions and urged communities in high-risk areas to prepare before floodwaters arrive.

“The purpose of this warning is not to alarm the public, but rather to provide people with the opportunity to prepare in advance, thereby minimizing potential loss of life and property damage caused by flooding,” SoDMA said.

The agency said Somalia could face two main types of flooding during the rainy season.

Riverine flooding is expected to pose a particular threat along the Juba and Shabelle rivers, where heavy rainfall in Somalia and the Ethiopian highlands could increase water levels and river flows.

Flash floods could also occur following intense rainfall over short periods, affecting cities, villages, roads, waterways and low-lying areas.

The 29 districts identified as vulnerable are Doolow, Luuq, Baardheere, Bu’aale, Beledweyne, Buulo Burde, Jowhar, Mogadishu, Hargeisa, Garowe, Bosaso, Qardho, Baidoa, Galkayo, Kismayo, Afgoye, Buur-dhuubo, Jilib, Afmadow, Diinsoor, Qansaxdheere, Jamaame, Ceel-Barde, Sablaale, Kuntiwaarey, Marka, Baraawe, Dhusamareb and Balcad.

SoDMA urged residents not to wait until floodwaters reach their homes before taking action. It advised people to monitor official warnings, identify safe areas and evacuation routes, and prepare essential supplies, including medicines, drinking water, food, phones and important documents.

The agency also warned children to stay away from floodwaters and urged motorists not to drive through flowing water of unknown depth.

Residents living along the Juba and Shabelle rivers were specifically advised to monitor river levels and official alerts. People in flood-prone areas were also told to avoid ravines, waterways and low-lying land during periods of heavy rainfall.

 “We are strengthening emergency preparedness and relief coordination at the national, state and district levels. Plans include monitoring weather and flood conditions, issuing early warnings and preparing rescue boats, safety equipment, emergency shelters and other relief supplies,” SoDMA added.

Regional and district authorities have been urged to identify evacuation sites and safe routes and to prepare transport and emergency response teams, including boats and large vehicles that can be used in rescue operations.

SoDMA also called on religious scholars, elders, women, young people, businesses and the media to help spread flood warnings and safety information.

The warning comes as Somalia continues to face significant vulnerability to extreme weather, with floods capable of displacing communities, damaging infrastructure and disrupting access to roads, health services and other essential facilities.