By Mohamed Abdi - Reporter
Somalia, 5 July 2026– Somalia’s government said it has stepped up flood preparedness after warnings of heavy rains expected to affect major cities, farmland and communities living near rivers.
The announcement was made after a meeting between the Ministry of Agriculture and Irrigation and the Somali Disaster Management Agency (SoDMA) on Saturday, focused on government preparations for possible heavy rains in the coming months.
SoDMA Commissioner Mahmoud Moallim Abdulle said the expected rains could cause flooding in Mogadishu, Baidoa and areas along Somalia’s rivers.
He said the forecast floods could be worse than those recorded in 2023 and may exceed the impact of the 1997 floods.
Mahmoud said preparations include food distribution, rescue boats, emergency equipment and identifying higher ground for possible evacuations.
He said nearly four million internally displaced people in Somalia are especially vulnerable because many live in weak shelters.
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Agriculture Minister Mohamed Abdi Hayir Maareeye said the government is preparing a coordinated plan involving federal and regional authorities.
He said warnings would be sent to farmers and communities living near rivers, low-lying areas and flood-prone towns.
The minister said the plan would also involve the ministries of livestock, health, water and other agencies to protect lives, livestock, farmland and food security.
Somalia has faced repeated droughts and floods in recent years, worsening humanitarian conditions and disrupting livelihoods.
Officials said early warnings, emergency planning and public awareness would be key to reducing possible losses from the expected floods.