Somalia steps up flood preparedness as Super El Niño raises heavy rain concerns

Wednesday August 12, 2026

Mogadishu (HOL) — Somalia is stepping up preparations for possible flooding and other emergencies linked to expected heavy rains, with the Somali Disaster Management Agency and Air Force agreeing to strengthen coordination ahead of the forecast impact of Super El Niño.

SoDMA Commissioner Mahmoud Moallim Abdulle met Tuesday with Air Force Commander Brig. Gen. Abdirisaq Mahmoud Haaji Qaloombi, at the Air Force headquarters to discuss emergency preparedness and the humanitarian risks associated with the expected rains.

The meeting focused on strengthening coordination between government agencies and the armed forces to prepare for flooding and other emergencies that could arise from heavy rainfall.

Under the plans discussed, the Somali Air Force will support emergency relief and rescue operations, particularly in areas that are difficult for aid workers and ground teams to reach.

The Air Force is also expected to use helicopters and drones to provide rapid assessments of areas affected by flooding or heavy rains. The information would help authorities identify urgent needs and improve emergency response planning.

SoDMA praised the Air Force’s role in disaster response and stressed the importance of coordinated preparedness among government institutions to reduce the impact of disasters and protect lives.

The preparations come as Somali authorities remain concerned about the potential humanitarian consequences of heavy rainfall, including flooding in vulnerable communities and damage to infrastructure and livelihoods.