By Hanad Abdi - Reporter
JOWHAR, 17 October 2026 Jowhar faces heightened flood risk as the Shabelle River has risen above the high-risk threshold, with heavy rainfall forecast in the coming days.
According to the latest weekly weather forecast from the Somalia Water and Land Information Management (SWALIM), covering 15 to 21 October 2026, the river level in Jowhar reached 5.36 metres, exceeding the flood danger level of 5.25 metres and standing just 14 centimetres below the bankfull level.
SWALIM said water flowing downstream from upstream areas, particularly Deefow and Beledweyne, could further increase the risk of flooding in settlements along the Shabelle.
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The agency forecast heavy rainfall of between 100 and 150 millimetres in Jowhar, Jalalaqsi and Buulo Burte between 22 and 24 October. The rainfall could further raise river levels and increase the likelihood of flooding.
The report also warned that flooding in areas affected by riverbank breaches between Jowhar and Balcad is likely to continue, posing a threat to farmland and nearby communities.
The findings highlight the need to strengthen early warning systems and emergency preparedness, particularly for people living in flood-prone areas.