Syracuse, N.Y. (NCC News) — Deadly floods have devastated parts of Somalia, but the country is receiving some help, as announced by the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) on Thursday. According to the Associated Press, authorities reported that 31 people have been killed by the extreme flooding as of Sunday. The United Nations predicts that 1.6 million people could be affected by the end of this Deyr Rainy Season, which is from October to December.
The UN said that El Niño is one of the factors causing the increased rainfall. The Food and Agriculture Organization’s Somali Water and Land Information Management predicted that a flood with impacts of this magnitude will statistically only happen once in 100 years. OCHA stated in its report on Thursday, “While all possible preparatory measures are being pursued, a flood of this magnitude can only be mitigated and not prevented. Early warning and early action can save lives and livelihoods, but large-scale displacement, increased humanitarian needs and further destruction of property remain likely.”
OCHA says the $25 million will be used to “support efforts to prevent loss of life, stem disease outbreaks and address food insecurity.” Somalia is coming off a historic drought and is now facing the direct opposite. OCHA says that the money is aimed to assist over 700,000 people during the crisis.
According to the AP, floods are also affecting Kenya, which neighbors Somalia. At least 15 are dead there according to the Kenya Red Cross.
