Somalia: Tropical cyclone causes flooding in Puntland /update 1

Event

A tropical cyclone formed in the Gulf of Aden on Thursday, May 17, bringing heavy rains to Puntland. Significant flash flooding was reported in Puntland’s Bari region on Friday, May 18. As of May 18, the cyclone is forecast to make landfall in Somaliland on Saturday, May 19, and impact the region through Monday, May 21. The UN announced that around 1.3 million people may be affected by the cyclone. Additional heavy rain, strong winds, and flooding are expected across northern Somalia in the coming days as the storm moves towards Djibouti.

Context

Rains from the Gu rainy season (which runs from March to May) caused significant flooding throughout Somalia in April. Even a modest amount of rainfall in the area is likely to cause flash floods and large amounts could significantly impact the region.

Advice

Individuals present in affected areas are advised to keep abreast of the situation, to avoid areas directly hit by flooding, and to adhere to any orders issued by the local authorities or their home governments. Remember that driving or walking through running water can be dangerous and that floodwater may contain wastewater or chemical products; all items having come into contact with the water should be disinfected and all foodstuffs discarded. Be aware that the risk of contracting water- and mosquito-borne diseases tends to rise after periods of heavy rains; take measures to protect yourself from mosquito bites (use insect repellent, mosquito nets, etc.) and only consume purified water.