Somalia Faces Severe Water Crisis Amidst Drought Conditions
Somalia is enduring a severe water crisis, worsened by consecutive failed rainy seasons and forecasts predicting below-average rainfall for the Gu season. Over 3 million people face acute water shortages as groundwater levels decline. Regions such as Gedo and Hiraan are likely to experience intensified drought conditions, impacting agriculture and livestock-dependent communities.
Somalia is currently facing an acute water crisis exacerbated by consecutive failed rainy seasons. The Gu season, scheduled from April to June 2025, is anticipated to yield below-average rainfall. The recent Deyr 2024 rains were erratic and inadequately distributed, particularly affecting regions such as Galmudug, Hirshabelle, South-West, Jubaland, and Puntland, where precipitation levels remain significantly low.
As a consequence, more than 3 million individuals are currently experiencing severe water shortages, with this number expected to increase if the Gu rains perform poorly and if WASH humanitarian interventions are insufficient. The imminent decrease in rainfall, coupled with escalating temperatures, is believed to worsen drought conditions, thereby further diminishing water resources.
Regions including Gedo, Hiraan, Middle Shabelle, Bakool, Bay, and inland Galguduud and Mudug are projected to receive below-average rainfall, which poses a significant threat to both water availability and agricultural productivity. Such circumstances will place additional strain on communities that rely heavily on livestock for their livelihoods.
In summary, Somalia continues to encounter a formidable water crisis characterized by below-average rainfall and rising temperatures. With over 3 million people facing acute water shortages, the upcoming Gu rainy season is crucial for alleviating this situation. The ongoing decline in groundwater levels and adverse weather projection heighten concerns for water-dependent communities and agricultural sustainability.
Original Source: reliefweb.int
