UN says death toll from El Nino-induced floods hit 110

The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) reported that the floods, exacerbating the country’s hunger crisis, have displaced over a million people in 36 districts with death toll rising to 110.

The UN humanitarian agency said on Sunday as the death toll from El Nino-induced heavy rains and flash flooding in Somalia reached at least 110, impacting over 2.4 million individuals.

Responding to the crisis, the OCHA deployed 37 boats to deliver supplies and evacuate tens of thousands trapped by floodwaters in Hirshabelle and Jubaland states.

The flash floods, beginning in October, have disrupted infrastructure, trade, education, and food supply services nationwide.

The torrential downpour follow the worst drought in four decades, pushing Somalia to the brink of famine by decimating livestock and crops.

Concerns heighten over water-borne diseases, with suspected cases of Acute Watery Diarrhoea/cholera reported. The OCHA warns that an outbreak could pose a significant threat in areas with limited healthcare facilities.

Humanitarian efforts, supported by local communities and authorities, have reached approximately 30% of those affected. While light rain is forecast for certain areas, water levels remain high along the Shabelle river basin, causing flooding in several regions.

The situation underscores Somalia’s vulnerability to extreme weather events, placing communities on the frontline of the global climate crisis.