Hassan Istiila
Thursday September 21, 2023
Mogadishu (HOL) - The Somali Ministry of Environment and Climate Change warned on Thursday that El Nino will likely occur in the southern part of the country due to the expected rainy season.
The ministry has urged aid agencies in Somalia to closely monitor and prepare for potential flood-related consequences from the anticipated rainfall.
The statement from the ministry further outlined their commitment to working alongside regional Ministries of Environment to observe the situation diligently.
Meanwhile, the IGAD Climate Prediction and Applications Centre (ICPAC) announced that the October to December 2023 climate forecast shows high chances of wetter-than-usual conditions across most parts of the Greater Horn of Africa.
Just days ago, forecasting agencies warned of impending stormy rains along the coastal areas of Somalia. This weather phenomenon could lead to extensive damage if adequate preparations are not made. The areas under alert include Bossaso, Berbera, Kismayo, and other coastal cities.
El Nino is a naturally occurring climate pattern typically associated with increased heat worldwide, drought in some parts of the world and heavy rains elsewhere.
The ongoing drought has left almost 32 million people across the Horn of Africa in dire need of humanitarian support. According to the United Nations humanitarian agency, the number of people affected by the severe drought ravaging several parts of Somalia has risen to 7.8 million as of August.