Somalia’s Catastrophe: Devastating Floods Claim 50 Lives, Displace Nearly 700,000 Amid Climate Crisis
In a tragic unfolding of climate-related disasters, Somalia has been hit by severe flooding, resulting in the death of 50 individuals and the displacement of approximately 700,000 citizens, according to the latest reports from the country’s government authorities.
From floods in Somalia - Reuters
The Horn of Africa, including Somalia, has experienced unexpected and intense rainfall in recent weeks, a phenomenon linked to the climate pattern known as El Niño. This sudden climate event has not only claimed lives but also forced a significant portion of the population to flee their homes.
Devastating 💔 Air view of flood in #Somalia .
This scene shows that if similar activity continues in the future, our turn is not far away.#ClimateEmergency pic.twitter.com/22SI0tEbon
— Neeraj ( Writer/YouthMindset4Peace) #ActOnClimate (@Neeraj10z) November 21, 2023
Mahmoud Maalim Abdullah, head of Somalia’s National Disaster Management Authority, addressed the media on Monday, revealing the alarming figures: “50 people have perished in this disaster, while a staggering 687,235 have been compelled to evacuate their homes.” He further cautioned that the forecasted heavy rains from November 21 to 24 might exacerbate the situation, potentially leading to more flooding, deaths, and destruction.
Somalia flash floods kill dozens, leave hundreds of thousands homeless
➡️ https://t.co/M16znSULeL pic.twitter.com/xFtgV1ZoUK— FRANCE 24 (@FRANCE24) November 21, 2023
This climatic turmoil in the Horn of Africa has been particularly severe in Somalia, where torrential rains have demolished bridges and inundated residential areas. The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) reported on Saturday that the number of people displaced due to the floods and heavy rains in Somalia had nearly doubled within a week. Overall, the catastrophe has affected 1.7 million people.
1.7 million people have been affected by the torrential rains and floods in #Somalia.@UN and partners, together with local communities, have stepped up assistance to affected people. At least 743,000 people have received life-saving aid since October: https://t.co/9BF3HOp6Bt pic.twitter.com/Kzmv7WS2Ki
— UN Humanitarian (@UNOCHA) November 21, 2023
The OCHA conveyed through Agence France-Presse: “Roads, bridges, and airport runways in several areas have been damaged, impacting the movement of people and supplies and leading to an increase in prices of basic commodities.”
The Horn of Africa is among the regions most vulnerable to climate fluctuations and has been experiencing severe environmental phenomena with increasing frequency. Emerging from its worst drought in four decades, the region has faced several rainy seasons that have left millions in need, devastating crops and livestock.
Humanitarian organizations have raised alarms about the deteriorating situation, calling for urgent international intervention. The El Niño phenomenon is expected to persist at least until April, prolonging the region’s plight.
