Somalia Humanitarian Fund Allocates $3 Million to Mitigate Impact of Imminent Flooding

The United Nations has announced that the Somalia Humanitarian Fund (SHF) has allocated $3 million to mitigate the impact of an imminent flooding threat in Somalia. The funding, provided as a pilot anticipatory action allocation, aims to reduce the humanitarian impact of predicted flooding on communities expected to be hardest hit.

The allocation comes as the Gu' rains have intensified, with flash floods reported since April 19th, resulting in 4 reported deaths, about 100 shelters destroyed, and at least 134 families displaced. The River Shabelle level has risen to high risk, particularly in Jowhar, with some localized flooding due to river breakages.

Why this matters: The impending floods are expected to have a significant impact on Somalia, exacerbating the country's already dire humanitarian situation. The allocation of funds by the SHF demonstrates the international community's commitment to supporting Somalia in preparing for and responding to this potential crisis.

Moderate to heavy rains are projected to continue in Hirshabelle and South West states, while heavy rains are expected in Bay, Sool, and Sanaag regions. Humanitarians have stepped up response efforts, including early warning, evacuation site identification, and boat prepositioning. However, funding for the ongoing response remains a major challenge, with the 2024 Humanitarian Needs and Response Plan only 10.2% funded as of April 22nd.

The United Nations humanitarian agency has reported that at least 25 people, including 14 children and 7 internally displaced people, have been killed in the past seven days due to heavy rains and flooding in Somalia. The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations has warned of a high risk of severe flooding, with at least 150,000 people at immediate risk as river levels continue to rise due to torrential rains.

The flooding has affected an estimated 25,000 people in 15 villages in the Jowhar region, and the Juba River has broken its banks in Doolow, flooding three villages. The floods have also washed away over 1,250 head of livestock and damaged shelters in low-lying areas, further exacerbating the country's significant food security concerns.

In a statement, a United Nations official emphasized the need for swift action, saying, "We must act quickly to ensure the safety and well-being of the affected people. The impacts of climate change, including the increased frequency of climate-related disasters, are being felt acutely in Somalia."

Key Takeaways

• UN allocates $3M to mitigate imminent flooding threat in Somalia.
• Floods have killed 25 people, displaced 134 families, and destroyed 100 shelters.
• Humanitarian response efforts underway, but funding remains a major challenge.
• At least 150,000 people at immediate risk of severe flooding due to rising river levels.
• Floods have affected 25,000 people, washed away livestock, and damaged shelters, exacerbating food insecurity.