Somalia's Hirshabelle Authorities Step Up Flood Preparedness Ahead of Forecast El Niño Conditions

Commissioner of the Somali Disaster Management Agency Mahamuud Moallim opened the multi-day meeting, which brings together religious scholars, traditional elders, women, youth, civil society organizations, and local and international humanitarian partners. Representatives from the Hiraan Regional Administration, Beledweyne District Administration and the Hirshabelle Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Management are also expected to join the discussions in the coming days. The meeting provides a platform for humanitarian and government actors to review climate forecasts, assess potential risks and identify early measures to reduce the impact of possible disasters. Particular attention is being given to the threat of flooding and heavy rainfall in the region. Speaking at the meeting, Commissioner Moallim stressed the need for authorities and communities to take preventive action before extreme weather strikes. He called for improved cleaning and maintenance of waterways, stronger early-warning systems, adequate emergency supplies and clearly defined evacuation plans to protect lives and property. He also emphasized the importance of close coordination between regional and district authorities, humanitarian organizations and local communities to ensure a rapid and effective response to any emerging hazards. The discussions come as Beledweyne and surrounding areas remain vulnerable to flooding, making early preparedness and coordinated disaster planning critical to reducing potential humanitarian impacts. Officials and humanitarian partners are expected to continue discussions over the coming days, with the focus on translating climate forecasts into concrete early actions and strengthening the region's capacity to respond to potential flooding and other weather-related emergencies.