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May 13, 2025 —  The ̽����ѡ (̽����ѡ) is preparing to launch an emergency response as torrential rains and major flooding displace over 2,600 people in Mogadishu and Mudug areas of Somalia. At least 7 people are reported to have died, including two women and two children, while key infrastructure, including primary access roads, remain impassable, isolating the population and hindering humanitarian response efforts.

Heavily affected areas included Mogadishu, which experienced one of the heaviest downpours in recent years, temporarily paralyzing the Mogadishu International Airport. Meanwhile, areas such as Mudug and Hobyo district experienced widespread devastation including damage to displacement camps and the loss of livestock and agricultural land. Communities - already weakened by prolonged drought - are enduring chronic water shortages and limited access to basic services.

Climate-induced disasters are a recurring issue in Somalia. An OCHA report from late April noted that 45,000 individuals across the country had already been impacted by flash floods in just the second half of April alone. The ̽����ѡ is preparing to launch an emergency response in affected areas and conducting damage assessments to ensure continuity of lifesaving services. The response will prioritize the provision of cash support and shelter (and other non-food items) for displaced families, vulnerable children, and households that have lost their homes or livelihoods.

Richard Crothers, ̽����ѡ Somalia Country Director,

“The scale and intensity of the flooding in Mogadishu is unprecedented and deeply concerning. Entire communities are now exposed to additional risks, with families already displaced by conflict or drought being hit hardest once again. ̽����ѡ-supported health clinics in the city have been impacted by the heavy rains and resulting flooding, with some sustaining structural damage. Additionally, the road leading to one clinic has been destroyed, making it difficult for displaced communities in need to access services. The ̽����ѡ is urgently coordinating with partners to assess the damage and expand our response.

This flooding compounds an already fragile situation for vulnerable communities in the country, who were just beginning to recover from the last drought. We are witnessing the direct impact of climate extremes in Somalia, where families can lose everything overnight — from shelter and safety to their only source of income.

As climate-related disasters grow in frequency and intensity, Somalia remains one of the most climate-vulnerable countries globally. The ̽����ѡ calls on the international community to urgently invest in climate adaptation and resilience, and ensure the protection and dignity of displaced and disaster-affected populations.”

Note to editors: 

The ̽����ѡ began working in Somalia in 1981 in the aftermath of the Somalia-Ethiopia conflict. Over the years, operations have faced several interruptions due to insecurity and civil unrest but has been operating continuously since 2007. The ̽����ѡ is operational in Mogadishu, Puntland, South-west, Jubaland and Hirshabelle states. We are increasing our programming to support families with healthcare for malnourished children, cash assistance, and mobile health services.